
COLONEL. 



THE 



Fourteenth Regiment 

Rhode Island Heavy Artillery 

(COLORED,) 

in the War to Preserve the Union, 
i 861-1865. 



BY 

William H. Chenery, 

Late Hrss ijnaienani, Compaq F, SecQud ^Battalion. 



PROVIDENCE : 

Snow & Farnham, Printers and Publishers. 

1898. 



PREFACE 



A MEETING of the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery 
Veteran Association was held March 29, 1898, at which 
time a committee was appointed, consisting of Gen. Nelson Viall, 
Maj. Richard G. Shaw, Capt. Joshua M. Addeman, and Lieuts. 
Lester S. Hill and Zephaniah Brown, to make arrangements with 
Snow & Farnham for publishing the history of the regiment, and 
also to petition the General Assembly for an appropriation to 
assist in defraying the expenses of the same. In compliance 
with the action of the Association the Committee presented their 
petition to the General Assembly, and a resolution was passed by 
that body authorizing the State to appropriate $600 for the pur- 
chase of two hundred copies of the history. 

Having been appointed to compile the history, I have endeav- 
ored to faithfully record the services of our regiment. It formed 
a part of the Union forces that guarded and protected the Mis- 
sissippi River, and it received the commendations of its com- 
manding officers, one of whom, Maj. -Gen. Thomas W. Sherman, 
a native of Rhode Island, and a distinguished officer of the regular 
army, pronounced the Fourteenth " a noble regiment." 

My thanks are due to the Committee and all others who have 
aided me in the preparation of this work, and especially to Capt. 
Joshua M. Addeman, who has kindly revised the proof sheets 
and allowed me to quote freely from his Personal Remi?iisce?ues 
of Two Years with the Colored Troops. That the history may be 
acceptable to my comrades and the public is my earnest desire. 

w. h. c. 



CONTENTS 



CHAPTER I. 

Page. 
Colored Troops in the War of the Revolution — Col. Christopher 

Greene, Lieut.-Col. Jeremiah Olnev, and Maj. Samuel Ward 
Ordered to Recruit a Black Regiment in Rhode Irland — Con- 
duct of the Rhode Island Troops at the Battle of Rhode Island 
in 177S — Gen. Nathanael Greene's Opinion of Them — Col- 
ored Troops in the War of the Rebellion. .... 1 

CHAPTER II. 

Formation of the Regiment — Recruiting and Organization of the 
First Battalion on the Dexter Training Ground — Parade in 
Providence — Removal of the First Battalion to Dutch Island — 
Visit of the Governor and Presentation of Colors — Addresses 
by Gov. James Y. Smith, Hon. Henry B. Anthony, Senator in 
Congress, Rt. Rev. Thomas M. Clark, and Others — Letter of 
Gen. Silas Casey, President of Examining Board at Washing- 
ton, D. C 5 

CHAPTER III. 

First Battalion Returns to Dexter Training Ground — Presentation 
of a Color to the Battalion — Its Departure for New Orleans — 
Arrival at that City — Battalion Proceeds to Fort Esperanza, 
Texas — Letter of Capt. Phanuel E. Bishop Concerning the 
Movements of the Battalion — Visit of General Dana — Com- 
pany Ordered to Aransas Pass. ...... 19 

CHAPTER IV. 

Second Battalion Departs for New Orleans with Capt. Nelson 
Kenyon in Command — Captain Addeman's Account of the 
Voyage — Arrival at New Orleans — Ordered to English Turn 
— Life in Camp — Arrival of Maj. Richard G. Shaw — The Bat- 
talion Ordered to Plaquemine, La. — Burning of the Steamer 
"J. H. Russell." 27 



VI CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER V. 



Page. 



Color Presented to the Third Battalion — Small-pox on Dutch 
Island — Departure of the Battalion for New Orleans — Arrival 
at that City — Description of the Voyage — Ordered to Camp 
Parapet — Lieutenant-Colonel Viall Assumes Command of the 
Post — Captain Southwick's Description of the Place — First 
Battalion Evacuates Fort Esperanza and Proceeds to Camp 
Parapet — Capt. George A. Spink with his Company Ordered 
to Garrison Fort Banks — School for Enlisted Men — A Paper 
Published by the Enlisted Men Entitled -' The Black Warrior." 37 

CHAPTER VI. 

The Second Battalion at Plaquemine, La. — The Place Threatened 
by the Appearance of Guerillas and Parties of Rebel Cavalry — 
The Red River Campaign — Attack on Plaquemine by a Body 
of Rebel Cavalry — Capture and Murder of Three Men of the 
Battalion — Captain Addeman's Graphic Account of the Skir- 
mish — General Benton's Report .51 

CHAPTER VII. 

The First Battalion Ordered to Fort Jackson — Description of the 
Country Adjacent to the Fort — Its Unhealthy Locality — 
Sickness and Death in the Battalion — Extract from "Whip, 
Hoe and Sword" — Death of Capt. Henry Simon — Captain 
Fry's Letter — A Military Execution. 63 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Lieut. -Col. Warren D. Smith, Inspector-General of the Defences of 
New Orleans, Inspects the Second Battalion at Plaquemine — 
Commendatory Letter of Gen. N. P. Banks — Gen. Thomas 
W. Sherman Visits the Battalion — Captain Addeman's De- 
scription of Guard and Picket Duty at Plaquemine — Amuse- 
ments in the Battalion — Baton Rouge — Description of the 
Place. 69 

CHAPTER IX. 

Col. J. Hale Sypher Appointed Colonel of the Regiment — His 
Arrival in the Department — Assumes Command of the Regi- 
ment, with Headquarters at Plaquemine — Correspondence Be- 
tween Capt. W. B. Ratcliffe, Commanding Confederate Forces 
West of Atchafalaya, and Colonel Sypher, Concerning Alleged 
Ill-Treatment of Citizens — Colonel Sypher's Reply — Illegal 
Traffic and Smuggling Between the Lines. .... 77 



CONTENTS. Vii 



CHAPTER X. 



Page. 



Settlement of New Orleans — General Jackson's Defence of the 
Place in 1815 — Occupation by the Federal Forces in 1S62 
Under General Butler — He is Succeeded by General Banks — 
Resume" of Affairs in the Department of the Gulf — Situation 
of New Orleans — Notable Buildings — St. Charles Hotel — 
The French Quarter 84 

CHAPTER XI. 

Location of the Several Battalions of the Regiment in August, 
1864 — Affairs in the Third Battalion — Picket Duty on the 
New Orleans and Jackson Railroad — Company Funds of the 
Battalion — Battalion Council of Administration Appropriates 
Four Hundred Dollars for the Purpose of Organizing a Band — 
The Band a Success — Letter of a Correspondent from Fort 
Banks to the " Providence Evening Bulletin," Giving a Descrip- 
tion of the Fort and Adjacent Country and Affairs at the Post 
— Strength of the Regiment Dec. 31, 1S64 — Parade of the 
Third Battalion in New Orleans. ...... 94 

CHAPTER XII. 

Description of the Mississippi River — Floods and Crevasses — 
Captain Addeman's Account of His Journey Through a Por- 
tion of Louisiana which had been Devastated by Flooding 
Waters. 109 

CHAPTER XIII. 

Olhcers' Recitations at Plaquemine — Issuing of Rations to Desti- 
tute Persons by the United States Government Schools Organ- 
ized for the Enlisted Men. . . . . . . .112 

CHAPTER XIV. 

Major Comstock Assumes Command of the Third Battalion — 
Major Fitzwater Transferred to the First Battalion — That Bat- 
talion Ordered to Brashear City — Great Rejoicing Over Lee's 
Surrender at Appomattox — The Confederate Forces Under 
Gen. Kirby Smith West of the Mississippi Still Keep Up a Show 
of Resistance — News of the Assassination of President Lin- 
coln — Expressions of Sorrow — Escape of the Rebel Ram 
"Webb" from Red River — Passes by All Our Forces on the 
Mississippi Until Disabled a Few Miles Above Fort St. Philip, 
When She Was Deserted and Blown Up 116 



VI II 

CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER XV. 

Ca?t ;"::'if; ?; u c hwick Repor,s conditi °" ° f *** - *». p,ge 

Inspect nd B°a SETS "< ^ ~ C »»<- Southw", 

Command c, lhe Sta^SS £n oi £«, M^" AS *'" K ° 
ond Battalion Ordered t« r» ,., Mississipp, — Sec- 

Attack on DonaS o„;L bj re C S o nfI 1,e 7 ACC ° Unt ° £ "» 

— Death of Lieut. Tames P n, American Independence 

- Cap,. Ba,,e, PeX vl„ "^ £?/£"' °< "* S ™ d « 
Under Lieut. Charles H r-h iT Com P a "}' to a Force 
Turing in £ SS Ba,un°oi. the "" B * tM °" ~ E ™« 

128 

CHAPTER XVI 

Camp Parapet-Mufte r~ Qu V?"?" Concentrate at 
New York- p ar ade in that ?r^ 6g ' ment ^P™. for 
Grove, R. ^I^I^SS^^^^^^ 

the Regiment at Portsmouth Grove ]1 ° lsbandme ^ of 

• 144 

Roster 

Personal Sketches ''''•'■• 151 

267 



ILLUSTRATIONS 



Col. J. H.Sypher 

Lieul-Col. Nelson Viall 

Maj. Joseph J. Comstock 

Maj. Richard G. Shaw 

Surgeon Benoni Carpenter 

Assistant Surgeon Joseph R. Draper 

Lieut. Joseph Cary Whiting, Jr. 

" John B. Peirce 
Capt. Thomas W. Fry . 

" Henry Simon 

Joel Metcalf, Jr. . 

" George Bucklin . 

" George W. Cole . 

" Joshua M. Addeman 

" Charles C. Cragin 

" George A. Spink 

" Anthony Richmond R; 

" Henry K. Southwick 

" Phanuel E. Bishop 
Lieut. Zephaniah Brown 

" John E. Wardlow 

" C. Henry Barney 

" William H. Chenery 

" George W. H. Allen 

" Warren Ralph 

" Allen F. Cameron 

" George W. Weeden 

" Charles L. Stafford 

" Charles P. Gay . 

" Daniel J. Viall . 

11 Herbert D. Leavitt 

" Lester S. Hill 

" John A. Reynolds 

" James Dodds 

" James P. Brown . 

" Martin S. Smith 

" Benjamin D. Jone*s 

" Pardon Mason 

" Herbert F. Bennett 



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LIEUTENANT-COLONEL 



THE 

fourteenth regiment 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery 

(Colored) 



1861 — 1865 



CHAPTER I 

Colored Troops in the War of the Revolution — Col. Christo- 
pher Greene, Lieut. -Col. Jeremiah Olney, and Mat. Samuel 
Ward Ordered to Recruit a Black Regiment in Rhode Island 
— Conduct of the Rhode Island Troops at the Battle of 
Rhode Island in 177S — Gen. Nathanael Greene's Opinion of 
Them — Colored Troops in the War of the Rebellion. 

IN the War of the Revolution we learn that the colored soldier 
proved a valuable auxiliary to the Continental forces. While 
there were only a few distinct organizations of colored troops, yet 
side by side with their white compatriots they fought gallantly for 
American Independence, from Bunker Hill to Yorktown. Negroes 
and mulattoes were found among the large body of raw but gallant 
patriots which comprised the army that had suddenly assembled 
around Boston, and their services were freely accepted in regi- 
ments composed for the most part of whites. After the battle of 
Monmouth, June 28, 1778, they were to be found in eighteen 
brigades in the main army under General Washington. 

Gen. Nathanael Greene in writing from Valley Forge in the 
winter of 1778, to his brother, says : 

" The Rhode Island troops have done themselves great honor ; 
the reputation of the officers is in high estimation. The soldiers 
of the two regiments are put into one ; and Colonel Greene and 
all his officers are coming home to recruit a Negro regiment." 

The General Assembly by enactment authorized a general 
enlistment of slaves for the patriot army ; and, upon passing 
muster before Colonel Greene, they were to be immediately dis- 
charged from the service of their masters or mistresses, to be 
absolutely free, and to receive pay, bounty, etc., precisely like 
other soldiers. 

In compliance with this act Col. Christopher Greene, Lieut- 
Col. Jeremiah Olney, Maj. Samuel Ward, seven captains, twelve 
lieutenants, six ensigns, one paymaster, one surgeon and mates, 
one adjutant, and one chaplain were ordered home to Rhode 



2 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Island to recruit for this regiment. This is said to have been the 
first instance in the history of the country of the employment of 
colored troops as an organized body. 

At the battle of Rhode Island, which occurred August 29th of 
that year (1778), Arnold, the historian, says: "And now it was 
that the newly-raised black regiment, under Col. Christopher 
Greene, 1 justified the hopes of its leaders and contributed in no 
small degree to decide the fortunes of the day. Headed by their 
major, Samuel Ward, and posted in a grove in the valley, they 
three times drove back the Hessians, who strove in vain to dis- 
lodge them, and so bloody was the struggle that on the day after 
the battle the Hessian colonel who had led the charge applied for 
a change of command, because he dared not lead his regiment 
again to action lest his men should shoot him for causing them so 
great a loss." 

No less an authority than General Greene wrote the next day 
after the engagement : " The black regiment was one of three 
that prevented the enemy from turning the flank of the American 
army." These colored troops conducted themselves so creditably 
that Alexander Hamilton was in favor of raising levies of Negroes 
in the South on the Rhode Island plan. A writer at that time 
said: "If we had arms for 3,000 such black troops as I could 
enlist in Carolina, I should have no doubt of success in drawing 
the British out of Virginia, and subduing East Florida before the 
end of July." 

Mention is made of the Rhode Island colored troops in January, 
1 78 1, by the Marquis de Chastellux in his " Travels," who wrote : 
"At the passage to the ferry, I met a detachment of the Rhode 
Island regiment, the same corps we had with us all the last 
summer, but they have since been recruited and clothed. The 
greater part of them are Negroes or mulattoes ; but they are 
strong, robust men, and those I have seen had a very good 
appearance." 



1 This gallant officer was afterwards barbarously murdered by an assaulting party of 
the British, near Croton Bridge, New York. After being first wounded, he was taken into 
the woods and his body shockingly mutilated. About forty of the Rhode Island regiment 
were killed or taken prisoners in this tragic affair, 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 3 

It is stated that the Oswego Expedition was probably the last 
active service of these colored soldiers. In February, 1783, 
Washington directed that a detail be made from the Rhode Island 
regiment, and, in connection with a body of New York troops, 
under the command of Col. Marinus Willett, proceed to the 
British trading post at Oswego, on Lake Ontario, and surprise and 
capture the garrison at that post. "After a tedious night march 
on snow shoes, the detachment found itself at daybreak five miles 
from the post, and surprise being out of the question, they 
returned having accomplished nothing. The result was attributed 
to the treachery or ignorance of the Indian guide, who is said to 
have lost his way. This night march was a terrible trial to these 
colored soldiers ; many of them were so badly frost-bitten that 
they were discharged from the service and disabled for life." 

At the commencement of the War for the Union there were 
many colored citizens of the free states who desired to serve the 
country by bearing arms against its enemies. The laws of the 
United States, and of the several states, however, then recognized 
only white citizens as soldiers, and prejudices and unfounded 
opinions as to their military capacity co-operated to exclude this 
portion of the people from the burden and duty as well as the 
glory of fighting for their country. Radical anti-slavery men, and 
many others who comprehended the character and magnitude of 
the Rebellion early advocated not only the enlistment of the 
colored citizens of the free states into the armies, but the organ- 
ization and arming of the able-bodied slaves who came within the 
lines of the Federal forces, and the employment of them in sup- 
pressing the Rebellion. Public opinion of the North, at first, did 
not sustain these views, and in the border states they were strenu- 
ously opposed. Strange as it may seem to us now some of its 
opponents were also found among the Union soldiers in the field. 

Is it a marvel that when there was such a diversity of opinion 
in the North in regard to the enlistment of colored troops, there 
should have arisen a prejudice against them by the Confederates, 
especially when their former slaves were found arrayed against 
them in the ranks of the Union army, and when they met their 
colored foes in battle and were themselves the victors oftentimes 



4 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

an indiscriminate slaughter of black soldiers followed. Nor were 
the white officers who commanded them spared the indignities 
committed against the enlisted men. 

The following extract from a resolution passed by the Confed- 
erate Congress needs no comment : 

" Sec. 4. That every White person being a commissioned offi- 
cer or acting as such, who, during the present war, shall command 
Negroes or mulattoes in arms against the Confederate States, or 
who shall arm, train, organize, or prepare Negroes or mulattoes 
for military service against the Confederate States, or who shall 
voluntarily aid Negroes or mulattoes in any military enterprise, 
attack or conflict, in such service, shall be deemed as inciting ser- 
vile insurrection, and shall, if captured, be put to death, or be 
otherwise punished at the discretion of the court." 

On the reception at Richmond of General Hunter's and General 
Phelps's proceedings with reference to the enlistment of Negro 
soldiers for the Union armies, Jefferson Davis issued an order 
directing that said generals be not only regarded as public enemies 
of the Confederacy, but as outlaws ; and that, in the event of the 
capture of either of them, or of any other commissioned officer 
employed in organizing, drilling, or instructing slaves, he should 
not be treated as a prisoner of war, but held in close confinement, 
for execution as a felon, at such time and place as he (J. D.) 
should order. It is not recorded that any one was ever actually 
hanged under this order. 

As the war progressed the great assistance rendered the Union 
cause by the employment of colored troops was fully manifested 
in all the Federal armies. When the Confederates observed what 
a valuable acquisition the colored troops were to the Federals, 
some of their ablest statesmen and generals advocated utilizing them 
on their own side ; and no one more strongly urged this policy 
than Gen. Robert E. Lee, the foremost soldier of the Confederacy. 

From the beginning to the end of the conflict it is estimated 
that there were 178,975 Negro soldiers in the United States volun- 
teer army, and of this number 36,847 were killed, wounded, or 
missing. They participated in 449 battles, and served in nearly 
every military department of the United States. 



CHAPTER II 

Formation of the Regiment — Recruiting and Organization of 
the First Battalion on the Dexter Training Ground — 
Parade in Providence — Removal of the First Battalion to 
Dutch Island — Visit of the Governor and Presentation of 
Colors — Addresses by Governor James Y. Smith, Hon. 
Henry B Anthony, Senator in Congress, Rt. Rev. Thomas 
M. Clark, and Others — Letter of Gen. Silas Casey, Presi- 
dent of Examining Board at Washington, D. C. 

AS in the Revolution Rhode Island contributed her quota of 
colored soldiers in the War for Independence, so in our late 
civil strife our commonwealth recruited and sent to the front a 
full regiment of heavy artillery composed entirely of colored men, 
with the exception of the field and line officers, who were white. 
Early in the war the attention of Governor Sprague was turned 
to the enlistment of colored men as soldiers. The War Depart- 
ment having signified a readiness to accept a colored regiment 
from Rhode Island, the governor, on the 4th of August, 1862, 
directed the following order to be issued for the enlisting of a 
sixth regiment to " consist entirely of colored citizens " : 

STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 

Adjutant-General's Office, 

Providence, Aug. 4, 1S62. 
General Orders, No. 36. 

The Sixth Regiment authorized by the Secretary of War, under date of 
October 23, 1S61, will consist entirely of colored citizens. Enlistment will 
commence immediately. 

Camp will be established under direction of General Robbins, who is 
directed to organize the Regiment. 

The Quartermaster-General will furnish rations and equipment on requi- 
sition. 

Our colored fellow-citizens are reminded that the Regiment from this 
State in the Revolution, consisting entirely of colored persons, was pro- 
nounced by Washington equal, if not superior, to any in the service. They 



6 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

constitute a part of the quota from this State, and it is expected they will 
respond with zeal and spirit to this call. 

The Commander-in-Chief will lead them into the field, and will share 
with them, in common with the patriotic soldiers of the Army of the 
Republic, their trials and dangers, and will participate in the glories of 
their successes. 

By order of the Commander-in-Chief, 

EDWARD C. MAURAN, 

Adjutant- General. 

This call excited a lively interest among the colored people of 
the State. Public meetings were held in Providence, the subject 
freely discussed, and a general readiness expressed to form a 
colored regiment in Rhode Island. A rendezvous was opened 
and about one hundred men enrolled, but owing to uncertainty 
whether they were to be employed as soldiers on equal terms with 
other volunteers, or be assigned to labor with pick and spade, 
together with other causes, the enterprise for the moment failed. 

The purpose of raising a colored regiment though temporarily 
suspended, was not, however, abandoned. Since the first propo- 
sition at which the War Department, from prudential considera- 
tions, hesitated, public opinion had been rapidly outgrowing its 
prejudice. Circumstances had changed. Things appeared in a 
new aspect, and the clearly revealed popular feeling authorized 
the government to take a more decided step. In the summer 
white men were not so eager to enlist as at the beginning of the 
war. Another draft was impending and the quota of the State 
must be filled. Hon. James Y. Smith who had been elected gov- 
ernor at the May session of the General Assembly in 1863 obtained 
permission from the authorities at Washington to organize and 
enlist a colored company of heavy artillery. This was granted 
June 17, 1863. On the 4th of August the permit was extended 
to a battalion, and finally a full regiment of twelve companies. 

Capt. Thomas W. Fry, who had served as first lieutenant in the 
Third Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, was assigned to the com- 
mand of Company A, the first company to be recruited for the 
battalion, and he was directed to report to Col. Nelson Viall, who 
was at that time engaged in recruiting and organizing the Thir- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 7 

teenth Regiment Rhode Island Volunteers on the Dexter Train- 
ing Ground in Providence. 

The order issued from the Adjutant-General's office authorizing 
the organization of this company reads as follows : 

STATE OF RHODE ISLAND, &c. 

Adjutant-General's Office, 

Providence, July 19, 1S63. 
General Orders, No. 24. 

Authority having been received from the War Department to raise one 
Company of Heavy Artillery to serve for three years or during the war, to 
be composed of colored men, a camp for that purpose is hereby established 
at Dexter Training Ground, in the City of Providence, where recruits for 
the same will be received. 

The Quartermaster-General will issue the necessary tents, equipments, 
etc., upon requisition of William H. Helme. 

The Company will be organized as follows : One captain, one first lieu- 
tenant, one second lieutenant, one first sergeant, one quartermaster-ser- 
geant, four sergeants, eight corporals, two musicians, two artificers, one 
wagoner, and 122 privates. 

By order of the Commander-in-Chief, 

EDWARD C. MAURAN, 

Adjutant-General. 

At this time Rhode Island was not wholly free from bitter 
expressions in regard to the draft, and the governor having reason 
to believe in consequence of the riots in New York city, that a 
system of patrol would be necessary, placed the charge of the 
State property in Colonel Viall's hands. The Thirteenth and the 
colored company of heavy artillery co-operated with the militia in 
performing guard duty in the city and its environs. A system of 
signals was established by firing the guns of the United Train of 
Artillery, which would assemble at short notice the various mili- 
tary organizations at their respective armories. A company was 
detailed to guard the quartermaster's stores of the State at the 
Fall River Iron Works Building on South Main Street ; another 
company acted as guard at night at the Burnside Rifle Works, 
and a company of cavalry also patrolled the streets of the city. 



8 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

The ordnance stores were removed from the State Arsenal to a 
vessel below Fox Point wharf, where a sufficient force was sta- 
tioned until the excitement had subsided. 

In August, 1863, another order was issued granting authority 
to raise a second company of heavy artillery. The following is a 
copy of the order : 

STATE OF RHODE ISLAND, &c. 

Adjutant-General's Office, 

Providence, Aug. 14, 1863. 
General Orders, No. 26. 

The Second Company of Heavy Artillery, to be composed of colored 
men, to serve for three years or during the war, will be organized without 
delay. 

The organization of the Company and location of the camp will be the 
same as that of the first company. (See General Orders, No. 24, current 
series from this office.) 

The Quartermaster-General will issue the necessary camp equipage, 
equipments, etc., upon the requisition of Capt. Henry Simon. 

By order of the Commander-in-Chief, 

EDWARD C. MAURAN, 

Adjutant- General. 

The camp of the colored companies on the Dexter Training 
Ground was designated as " Camp Fremont," in honor of Maj.- 
Gen. John C. Fremont, the first candidate for the presidency of the 
United States nominated by the Republican party in 1856. 

Meanwhile orders were received from the department at Wash- 
ington to discharge all six months' regiments and recruit only for 
three years. Accordingly as the Thirteenth Regiment had less 
than two companies they were disbanded. 

On the 9th of September, 1863, in accordance with authority 
granted by the War Department to raise a regiment of heavy 
artillery composed of colored men, Col. Nelson Viall was commis- 
sioned as major. Colonel Viall was a veteran of the Mexican 
War, and had also won distinction as colonel of the Second Rhode 
Island Volunteers in the Army of the Potomac. He set himself 
to the task of organizing and recruiting the first battalion of the 
regiment with commendable zeal. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 9 

The order detailing Colonel Viall to this command reads : 

STATE OF RHODE ISLAND, &c. 

Adjutant-General's Office, 

Providence, Sept. 9, 1863. 
General Orders, No. 30. 

In pursuance of authority received from the War Department, one Regi- 
ment of Heavy Artillery to be commanded by Col. Nelson Viall, and com- 
posed of colored men, will be organized without delay. 

The 1st, 2d, 3d and 4th Companies organized under General Orders, 
Nos. 24, 26, 29, current series from this Department, will constitute the 
First Battalion of said Regiment. 

By order of the Commander-in-Chief, 

EDWARD C. MAURAN, 

Adjutant-General. 

The camp which had been established on the Dexter Training 
Ground and known as " Camp Fremont," was changed to " Camp 
Smith," in recognition of the untiring efforts of the governor in 
raising and equipping the regiment. 

On Sunday, August 24th, the battalion under Colonel Viall 
attended service at the Free Congregational Church in Roger 
Williams Hall. The unusual appearance of such a column of 
colored troops in the United States service attracted much atten- 
tion, and their soldierly and gentlemanly bearing elicited general 
commendation. The large hall was completely filled, the troops 
occupying the body of the house. The exercises were appropriate 
and interesting. The singing consisted of three hymns : 1st. 
" My country 'tis of thee." 2d. " Blow ye the trumpet, blow." 
3d. " Ye soldiers," etc., a camp song, with the John Brown cho- 
rus. The hymns were printed on slips and the battalion joined 
with great heartiness in the singing. The services were con- 
ducted by the pastor, the Rev. J. C. White. His text was chosen 
from Acts, vii. 26, and I. Kings, ii. 2. Notwithstanding the his- 
torical character of the sermon, the necessary length to cover the 
ground desired, and the extreme heat and crowded condition of 
the house, the attention was marked, and the impression most 
hopeful. 



10 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

August 28th, the battalion under Colonel Viall made a street 
parade in the city. The battalion at that time consisted of two 
companies. The first company was commanded by Capt. Thomas 
W. Fry, and the second by Capt. Henry Simon. 

The Providence Journal of this date, says of this parade : 
" The appearance of three hundred muskets in our streets in 
the hands of as many sturdy, stalwart black men, was a novel 
sight in Providence, and we are sure it was looked upon with 
unusual interest. In the ranks were men well worthy of more 
notice than we shall be able to give them. Look, for instance, at 
the two Freeman boys at the right of the line in the first company. 
Peter, the file leader, is a splendidly formed man, huge, muscular, 
and powerfully built. Charles Freeman is his equal in all that 
goes to make up the physical man. Though they are of the 
same name and fashioned after the same colossal mould they are 
in no other way relatives. Peter is from the border and from 
slavery. Charles is of Rhode Island stock and hails from Bristol. 
Jeremiah Noka, who is not much inferior and stands near the 
right, is also a noteworthy specimen of a Rhode Islander. He is 
one of the purest examples which a modern intermingling of Afri- 
can blood has left to us of the once all powerful tribe of Narra- 
gansetts. His fine shape, his decided Indian cast of features, his 
genial and winning smile, his generous expression, inevitably re- 
call the memory of the lost Narragansetts. Sergeants Jenkins," 
Phenix, and Howland, of this city, are well known and capable 
men, and well drilled soldiers. 

" Corp. William L. Humbert was one of the first to volunteer, 
and has sacrificed quite a business by enlisting. Being a tailor 
we saw him quite full of business yesterday in his tent sewing on 
the chevrons for the non-commissioned officers. We notice, too, 
that he has sewed them upon his own coat sleeve. Corp. George 
Black is a fine manly fellow, worthy of his place. He was drafted, 
but was too anxious to go to make the effort which some white 
men do to get exempt, although he had a widowed mother depend- 
ent upon him for support. 

" Sergt. Charles A. Jackson, of the second company, was the 
first man to enlist in the first company. He worked so long and 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). II 

industriously to fill the ranks of the first, that he lost his prefer- 
ment in it, and was transferred to the second, where he became a 
sergeant. There are many other excellent soldiers in both of 
these companies ; a vast proportion of them are of superior moral 
worth, and they are trusty and faithful men." 

The havoc made by Confederate cruisers on our commerce 
caused the people of Rhode Island much anxiety. The west 
passage to Narragansett Bay was entirely unprotected. Dutch 
Island commands the western entrance to the bay, and it was 
decided to move the First Battalion to the island to assist in the 
construction of defensive works there. 

Governor Smith having received authority from the Federal 
government to construct, arm, and man suitable earthworks on 
the island, Maj. E. B. Hunt, of the Engineer Department, was 
sent on by the Engineer Bureau, to lay out and superintend the 
erection of the fortifications. An eight-gun battery was imme- 
diately laid out on Dutch Island, and as successive companies of 
the Fourteenth Regiment were sent there to complete its organi- 
zation and for instruction, daily details were made to labor on 
the fort until completed and the guns mounted, saving to the 
government a heavy expense, and giving to the men a valuable 
experience. 

On the 2d of September the first company (A) left the Dexter 
Training Ground on the steamer Sylph for the island. Governor 
Smith, together with a number of military officers of his staff, 
also went down in the tug-boat American Union. Maj. E. B. 
Hunt, the government engineer, welcomed the governor and his 
escort, accompanying them and kindly showing them over the 
grounds, explaining as well as possible the nature of the works to 
be erected by the government. 

A letter written to the Providence Journal, Sept. 7, 1863, by a 
member of Company A reads as follows : 

" Our sail down the bay was pleasant, everything appeared 
lively to the eye, the azure sky overhead, the smiling isles stud- 
ding like gems this lovely water so full of historic reminiscences, 
the passing boats, the white sails in the distance, the silver gleam 
of sunshine and water, while the rich strains of " John Brown's 



12 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Body," " When this Cruel War is Over," and " Old Hundred," 
made it seem more like a party of pleasure than the stern realities 
of war. Soon after we left the city we were taken in tow by the 
tug American Union, having on board His Excellency Governor 
James Y. Smith and staff. 

"We are finely situated on the northwest end of the island com- 
manding an extensive view on three sides. Yesterday divine ser- 
vices were performed for the first time here. The Sabbath was 
ushered in by the six o'clock morning prayer meeting. At three 
o'clock p. m. we listened to an excellent sermon delivered by 
Charles Tilman, a licensed preacher, one of the privates of this 
company. At 7.30 p. m. we again meet for prayer and praise. 
The sweet influences of the Spirit were felt. Every minute of the 
time was occupied, and a deep interest was manifested by some 
who have never before shown any respect either for religion or 
its teachings. The tent (which holds thirty) was densely packed 
and nearly the same number was outside. Our regular weekly 
meetings for prayer and conference are on Tuesday and Friday 
nights. That the Lord will bless our efforts and make manifest 
His power in the conversion of souls is our prayer. There is a 
great scarcity of religious books and tracts. There are but three 
of the Soldiers' Hymn Books in the company." 

On the 29th of September Companies B, C, and D, were trans- 
ferred to Dutch Island, leaving Company E with one hundred men 
on the Dexter Training Ground. 

While the First Battalion was rendezvousing on the island the 
encampment on the Dexter Training Ground was still used to 
complete company organizations. In November several other 
companies of the regiment augmented the force already encamped 
there. 

On the 9th of November a correspondent of the Eveni?ig Press 
writes : 

" The members of the Fourteenth Rhode Island stationed on 
this island have not been idle since landing here. They have 
nearly completed a large earthwork fortification, commanding 
Dutch Island and the West Passage. Eight guns are already in 
position — seven of them sixty-four pounders, and one thirty-two 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 13 

pounder. The government fortifications are proceeding very 
slowly, owing to the nature of the ground and difficulty of secur- 
ing laborers. These works are now in charge of Major Prime, of 
the Engineer Department. The erection of barracks will soon be 
commenced and comfortable winter quarters are anticipated. 

" Private Frederick C. Grames, of Company C, died Saturday, 
November 7th, from lockjaw, caused by having two fingers cut off 
while driving tent-pins a few weeks since." 

On the 19th of November the governor, accompanied by the 
Legislature, and many other noted guests, visited the island, re- 
viewed the troops and presented to the regiment a stand of colors. 
A cloudless sky and a genial atmosphere heightened the enjoy- 
ment of the occasion to those who by invitation of His Excel- 
lency were permitted to witness the scene. 

The following description of this event is taken from the Provi- 
dence Journal : 

" The steamer Motitpelier with the governor and distinguished 
guests and the excellent American Band on board, left her wharf 
in Providence about ten o'clock, and proceeded down the bay, 
touching at Portsmouth Grove and Newport for a few moments to 
receive additions to the already large number of persons on board. 
Leaving the latter place the party proceeded around Beaver Tail, 
and, as the steamer approached the landing at Dutch Island, the 
Third Rhode Island Cavalry, under Lieut.-Col. Charles H. Park- 
hurst, were observed in line on the opposite hillside of Conanicut 
Island. The bright sabres flashed in the sunlight as they were 
brought to a salute, when the distinguished party were nearest to 
the thither shore. About one o'clock the boat reached the wharf 
at Dutch Island, and the governor received the usual salute of 
fifteen guns fired under the direction of Major Comstock. Lieut. 
Charles H. Potter (officer of the day), was stationed at the land- 
ing in command of a company to receive the visitors. Colonel 
Viall went on board and welcomed His Excellency and those 
accompanying him to the island, after which the landing was 
made in the following order : Commander-in-Chief and Staff, 
Adjutant-General and Staff, Quartermaster-General and Staff, 
Members of the Legislature, and invited guests. 



14 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

" Upon moving to the hill, which formed an admirable parade 
ground, the regiment was soon formed in line and the colonel 
took his position in the centre of the column. The governor then 
presented the standard to Colonel Viall accompanied by the fol- 
lowing address : 

" ' Colonel Viall, Officers and Men of the Fourteenth : 

" < It affords me much pleasure to present to your regiment, our 
Fourteenth ' Corps d' Afrique,' this flag, and I feel confident that 
it will be entrusted to as brave men as ever entered the service in 
defense of our country and its liberties. And I feel assured that 
but one thought will occupy the mind of every man in the regi- 
ment, and that thought is our country. Let this flag be your 
beacon light, its stars ever to shine. I now surrender it to your 
keeping. Let its history be Rhode Island's history.' 

"Colonel Viall in behalf of the Fourteenth expressed his thanks 
for the beautiful stand of colors, and promised it should be pre- 
served from dishonor or disgrace. The flag would be a perpetual 
reminder of His Excellency, and his zealous and untiring efforts 
to promote the welfare of the regiment, and would incite to noble 
deeds wherever in the battle's front it might be unfurled. 

" The colors were then escorted by the guard to their place in 
the line. Some further speaking being in order, Governor Smith 
introduced to the regiment Hon. Henry B. Anthony, United States 
senator from Rhode Island, as 'the man to whom you must look 
to assure your future increased pay.' 

" Senator Anthony said that it would hardly be safe in the pres- 
ence of all these bayonets to disobey an order of the captain-gen- 
eral and commander-in-chief. He would therefore obey, and 
should also accept as an order the intimation which His Excel- 
lency had made touching a duty he would be called upon to per- 
form on his return to Washington. He was happy to add his 
congratulations to those whose praises on military matters were 
so much more valuable than his own. The exhibition which they 
had made of discipline, of drill, of orderly and soldierly conduct, 
would do credit to any body of men in any service. He had not 
doubted, from the beginning, that, in this war, the African race 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I 5 

would vindicate its manhood, and silence by its deeds, the sneers 
of its enemies. He had never doubted the courage, the fidelity, 
or the patriotism of men whose ancestors had mingled their blood 
with ours at Red Bank, and, with irresistible fury, three times 
hurled back the Hessian charge on yonder island ; who received 
the thanks of Jackson at New Orleans, and whose deeds at Milli- 
ken's Bend and Port Hudson were fresh in the recollections of 
every loyal man. 

"A colored regiment in Rhode Island was no new thing in his- 
tory. It had not a name to make for itself, but the more difficult 
duty of maintaining a name glorious with ancestral memories. It 
is nigh upon a hundred years since the Rhode Island colored 
regiment, under Col. Christopher Greene, as brave a man as ever 
drew a sword, received the praises of Washington. Three gen- 
erations have gone by, and now another regiment goes forth to 
help defend the inheritance which Washington left us, and which 
their ancestors helped ours to achieve. It goes forth under the 
most favorable auspices. It has received from the governor and 
the State the same aid and encouragement that were extended to 
the white regiments. He thought he risked nothing in saying 
that it would receive equal justice from the president and the 
Federal government. 

" 'And when this war is ended, when the foulest treason that 
ever blackened a land has been crushed, then their race and ours 
will together enjoy the rights that both have confirmed and the 
privileges that one has acquired. The man who has worn the 
uniform of the United States, who has followed the stars and 
stripes to the field of battle, can never be a slave ; but throughout 
our broad land, every man made in the image of his Creator 
would stand forth in the liberty with which his Creator had 
endowed him.' 

" The governor then introduced the Right Reverend Thomas 
M. Clark, bishop of the Diocese of Rhode Island, who congratu- 
lated the soldiers of the Corps d' Afrique on the position which 
they held that day. ' It is a distinguished honor to belong to 
such a regiment as this, the Fourteenth, in the order of place 
which has been furnished by Rhode Island to the war, but infe- 



l6 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

rior to none in the standard of physical soundness and ability. 
You stand in these ranks, not because you have been drafted by 
the civil authority, but as volunteers, as men who have willingly 
offered themselves to save and redeem their country as well as 
ours, and your rights to all its immunities will be amply vindi- 
cated. It is not merely the union of our country that is at stake, 
it is not merely the question of slavery or freedom, that you are 
to determine ; you now go forth to fight the great battle of civil- 
ization, to settle the question whether the human race, yours and 
ours, on this continent, shall go backward or forward. We gladly 
welcome your aid in this mighty struggle, and may God grant 
that when you return to us, with that beautiful banner, to-day so 
fresh and fair, torn and riddled by hostile shot, and crimsoned 
with the blood of its brave defenders, we may hold our jubilee 
over a nation redeemed from traitorous rebellion and consecrated 
as the home of universal freedom.' Addresses were also made 
by Rev. Dr. Edward B. Hall, Rev. Dr. Barnas Sears, of Brown 
University, and Rev. Dr. Leonard Swain. 

"After the reception of the colors by the colonel, and the pas- 
sage of the same to the color bearer, the colonel ordered, ' Present 
arms ! ' the music playing ' To the Color,' and the color bearer 
took his post in line. Company C, Capt. George Bucklin, com- 
manding, was designated as the color company, and Sergt. John 
Van Slyck, Company B, color sergeant. 

" The regiment then wheeled into column and passed in review 
before the governor, making a very gratifying appearance and 
receiving hearty applause from the spectators as they passed by. 
A half hour more was spent in looking over the grounds, calling 
upon the various officers of the regiment, and inspecting the 
progress of the fortifications, which were quite satisfactory. The 
governor, for the nonce, became an artillerist, and sent a few 
shells and solid shot across the harbor, giving evidence of his 
ability in that line, and the effectiveness of the works to resist 
a hostile invasion of our soil. In good time the visitors were 
summoned on board by the warning whistle, and the boat swung 
off, going around the north end of Conanicut Island, and down to 
Newport, whence, after stopping a short time, it steamed for Provi- 
dence, and arrived there in due season." 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). \J 

In the early organization of the Fourteenth the officers received 
commissions direct from the governor of the State, but, as has 
already been mentioned, they were subsequently required to 
appear before the military board in Washington constituted for 
the purpose of examining applicants for commissions in colored 
troops, and pass a rigid examination before that board, the offi- 
cers receiving their commissions from the president of the United 
States. 

The president of the Examining Board for colored troops was 
Maj.-Gen. Silas Casey, a native of Rhode Island, and a distin- 
guished officer of the regular army. He was the author of a sys- 
tem of infantry tactics, which were adopted by the United States 
government, and in use throughout the armies of the Union during 
the Rebellion. 

Among the questions propounded to the applicant were the fol- 
lowing : How many ranks to form a company ; the distance 
between the ranks ; how the file closers are posted ; the principles 
of the step ; the facings ; about the dress ; how to break into col- 
umns of platoons to the right or left ; how to form into line on 
the right or left ; the school of the battalion ; how to regulate the 
mustering of troops for pay, and the preparation of muster-rolls 
and pay-rolls ; the keeping of the company books ; the duties of 
sentinels ; the making of the soldier's descriptive list ; how to 
select a camping-ground; make a camp; locate and construct 
sinks ; keep tents and clothing dry ; policing a camp, etc. 

We have sometimes heard disparaging remarks concerning the 
efficiency of officers of colored troops in comparison with those of 
white. We quote without comment a portion of a letter written 
by General Casey to Mr. Thomas Webster, chairman of the super- 
visory committee for recruiting colored regiments in Pennsylvania, 
expressing his views with respect to the appointment of officers. 
General Casey says : 

" We consider alone in making our awards, the ability of the 
person to serve his country in the duties pertaining to the 
office. If, in the opinion of the Board, the person is not pos- 
sessed of sufficient knowledge or capacity to fill either of the 
above-named offices to the advantage of his country, he is rejected, 



l8 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

notwithstanding any influence he may be able to bring to bear in 
his case. Let it be remembered that zeal alone is not sufficient, 
but what we require for a good officer is zeal combined with 
knowledge. 

" Each state should have its military academy. In the mean- 
time much good can be done by instituting a school for the 
instruction of persons, especially those who may have the requi- 
site capacity and zeal to serve their country with advantage. 
Eschew all humbuggery and mere pretension, and let merit be the 
test of advancement. Let it be impressed deeply on the con- 
science of every man of influence or authority that when he places 
in command an incompetent officer he is guilty of manslaughter. 

" The country has lost millions of treasure, and thousands of 
lives, by the incompetence of officers. We have many enemies on 
this earth besides the Southern rebels. The fate of free institu- 
tions, not only in our own country, but in other lands — the des- 
tinies of millions unborn — depend upon our ability to maintain 
this war to a successful issue against all our enemies, both foreign 
and domestic. 

" The system of examination instituted by this Board, in my 
opinion, should be extended to the white, as well as the colored 
troops. Many of those who have been unsuccessful in the examina- 
tion before the Board have, no doubt, in some cases felt aggrieved, 
as also their friends. We have established a system for the exami- 
nation of officers, the good effects of which are already apparent 
in the organization of the colored regiments at the front." 

During the time the regiment was stationed on Dijtch Island, 
battalion and company drills were in order. Colonel Viall says: 
" It was gratifying to observe when a new company was mustered 
into service a strong feeling to emulate and excel the companies 
previously organized. In company movements they took especial 
pride. It was no uncommon occurrence where several companies 
were drilling together, for one company to rest awhile, and observe 
closely the movements of the others. So earnest and persistent 
were these soldiers in upholding the merits of their respective 
companies, that after returning to quarters they would sometimes 
come to blows in order to enforce their arguments." 




MAT. JOSEPH J. COMSTOCK 



CHAPTER III 

First Battalion Returns to Dexter Training Ground — Pres- 
entation of a Color to the Battalion — Its Departure 
for New Orleans — Arrival at that City — Battalion Pro- 
ceeds to Fort Esperanza, Texas — Letter of Capt. Phanuel 
E. Bishop Concerning the Movements of the Battalion — 
Visit of General Dana — Company A Ordered to Aransas 
Pass. 

ON the 7th of December, 1863, the First Battalion under Maj. 
Joseph J. Comstock, left Dutch Island and went into 
camp in Providence on the Dexter Training Ground, preparatory 
to proceeding to New Orleans, to join the command of General 
Banks in the Department of the Gulf. 

The orders from the War Department directing this battalion to 
move were as follows : 

Headquarters of the Army, 

Adjutant-General's Office, 

Washington, November 19, 1863. 
Special Orders, No. jij. 

Extract. 



2. The 1st Battalion 14th Rhode Island Heavy Artillery (Colored), 
Major J. J. Comstock, Jr., Commanding, now at Dutch Island, will pro- 
ceed without delay to New Orleans, Louisiana, and report to Major-General 
Banks, Commanding Department of the Gulf, for duty. 

The Quartermaster's Department will furnish the necessary transporta- 
tion. 

By command of 

Major-General HALLECK, 

E. D. Townsend, 
Assistant Adjutant-General. 

Wednesday, December 9th, the colored women of Providence, 
through Mr. John T. Waugh, a colored native of Virginia, pre- 
sented the battalion with a handsome silk flag, bearing appropriate 
emblems. Governor Smith, Lieutenant-Governor Padelford, Major- 



20 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

General Robbins, Adjutant-General Mauran, Mayor Knight, and 
a large concourse of spectators were present at the ceremony. 

The presentation address was made by Mr. VVaugh, in which 
he spoke of the condition and capabilities of his race, and the 
opportunity now afforded for its vindication. " You are expected," 
he said, " to do your utmost to wipe out the foulest blot which 
stains our land. See to it that history writes that you nobly sus- 
tained the honor of the flag." 

The speaker then handed the color to Sergt. John A. Jenkins, of 
Company A, who briefly ai\d handsomely responded. He in turn 
handed it to Major Comstock, who, on receiving it, thanked the 
ladies for the gift, and expressed himself as proud to be an officer of 
such a noble regiment. The color was then saluted with hearty 
cheers by the soldiers of the battalion, followed by an eloquent 
address delivered by the Rev. George T. Day. The battalion was 
then reviewed by His Excellency, the Commander-in-Chief. The 
men appeared as usual to fine advantage, and did full justice to 
the excellent military training which they had received. 

Friday, December 18th, the battalion broke camp and marched 
to Railroad Hall, in Providence, where it was quartered for the 
night. 

Saturday, December 19th, the battalion left Providence on the 
steamer City of Newport for Newport, where it was transferred to 
the transport Catawba and sailed for New Orleans, arriving there 
December 30th. 1 

The First Battalion of the Fourteenth remained at New Orleans 
until Jan. 3, 1864, when it left at 1.30 p. M. and proceeded to 
Pass Cavallo, Texas. It arrived off Fort Esperanza January 5th 
at 11 p. m., and disembarked January 8th, at 9.30 a, m. The bat- 
talion was assigned to garrison duty in Fort Esperanza, Matagorda 
Island, and Major Comstock was placed in command. 

Matagorda Island is a long coast island of Calhoun County, 
Texas, dividing Espiritu Santo Bay from the Gulf of Mexico. At 
its northeast point is a lighthouse on Pass Cavallo, a channel 



1 On the 20th of December, 1S63, Private Lewis Fisher, Company C, died while on the 
voyage from Newport to New Orleans. He was buried at sea. Albert Reynolds, Com- 
pany D, also died at sea on the 29th, and was buried in a cemetery at New Orleans, La. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 21 

which separates it from Matagorda Peninsula, a low spit of sand 
subject in some places to occasional overflow, and dividing Mata- 
gorda Bay from the waters of the Gulf. The south end of Mata- 
gorda Island closely approaches Mustang Island, from which it is 
separated by Cedar Bayou. 

Capt. Phanuel E. Bishop, in a letter to the Providence Evening 
Press, so graphically describes the movements of the First Bat- 
talion from the time of its departure from Newport, R. I., to its 
encampment on Matagorda Island, that we give it full publication 
here. He says under date of Feb. i, 1S64 : 

"At last we have arrived at our destination. The First Battalion 
Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery garrisons Fort Esper- 
anza, situated on the coast of Texas, about one hundred miles 
below Galveston. 

" Our voyage from Newport, R. I., was varying until we had 
reached Hilton Head ; pleasant weather and a smooth sea favored 
us. Along the coasts of Florida and in the Gulf of Mexico the 
weather was stormy, and the sea rough. The health of the men 
was good, with the exception of two who died at sea, and were 
buried, the one off the coast of Delaware, and the other at New 
Orleans. We remained at New Orleans three days, during which 
we had a little disturbance, which the New Orleans papers have 
magnified into quite a skirmish, and I have also seen a Northern 
paper which states that the whole police force were unable to 
restrain them, when a regiment of white soldiers arrived and 
forced them into subjection. This is false. After we had been 
lying at the dock two days the men became weary and tired of 
shipboard. Some of them slipped by the guard and went into the 
city. As we were liable to leave at any moment, the major sent 
some of the police to bring them back to the ship. In doing so, 
they used hard words to our men and fired several shots. For a 
short time our men were in confusion,-but their officers easily 
quieted them, and they returned to the ship. As to that regiment 
of white soldiers I have only to say, that all the soldiers I saw 
were about twelve rank and file, commanded by a sergeant, and 
if they were able to awe a whole battalion, as the papers state, I 
should advise that they be sent to the front at once. After re- 



22 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

maining at New Orleans three days, we were ordered to report to 
General Dana at Pass Cavallo, at the entrance to Matagorda 
Bay. 

" The Catawba weighed anchor at once, and we were soon in 
the Gulf. A run of two days brought us to our destination. We 
were at once ordered to garrison Fort Esperanza. 

" Fort Esperanza was engineered by General Taylor at the 
close of the Mexican War, but was not completed until the Rebel- 
lion. It is situated on the northwestern part of Matagorda Island. 
It mounts guns en barbette, every one of which bears not only on 
passing vessels but also inland. At the time of its evacuation it 
was garrisoned by seven hundred men, and it is surprising what 
caused them to leave it in the manner they did. When they 
evacuated they fired the magazine, which in blowing up destroyed 
the fort to a great extent. It will take two hundred of our men 
two months to repair damages." 1 

Lieut. Charles H. Chace gives the following description of this 
fort : 

" Fort Esperanza was a large earthwork, or fort, surrounded 
by a moat about fifteen feet wide and six feet deep, which had 
been allowed to become dry. At the bottom the Confederates 
had placed torpedoes of a domestic manufacture — something 
after the style of a milk pail or a milk can with a plunger fitted 
in the top. If a soldier stepped on the plunger of one of these 
torpedoes it would have meant certain death to him. Upon the 
arrival of our battalion at the fort, we had a very delicate duty to 
perform in removing these deadly instruments of destruction out 
of harm's way." 

Captain Bishop says : 

" The island of Matagorda is entirely covered with sand in the 
northwestern part. Not a stone can be found upon it. Trees 
are few in number, and mostly of the palmetto species. Wood 
and water are difficult to procure. The former is entirely drift, 
and the latter is obtained by digging among the mounds along 



1 This fort was captured from the Confederates in the fall of 1S63, by the Federal forces 
under the command of Gen. Cadwallader C. Washburn, commanding First Division 
Thirteenth Army Corps. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 23 

the beach. When first procured it has the taste of sulphur, but 
after standing a day or so, it is as good as any found in Rhode 
Island. 

" The soil on the lower part of the island is rich and fertile, and 
large droves of cattle and deer abound. We are never short of 
fresh beef. The island is intersected by numerous bayous, in 
which shell-fish of all kinds are found in abundance. Oysters 
fairly lie in heaps. The bayous are also filled with large flocks 
of ducks and geese. Hunting is plenty and good. Since we 
came here we have attained quite a reputation. The troops in 
this department are mostly from the Western States, and are not 
very particular with regard to their dress and equipments. One 
can hardly find two who dress alike. 

"Major-General Dana visited us on the 27th of last month. 
He gave us no notice of his coming. He came over in a small 
boat, and entered by way of the parapet next to the water. No 
sooner was he recognized than the ' assembly ' was beaten, and 
in five minutes the whole battalion was in line. The general 
was received with the honors due his rank, and invited to review 
us. He did so, and complimented the battalion highly on its 
promptness in forming 'line of battle,' and the celerity of its 
movements. He promised to review us Sunday. This time he 
did not take us by surprise. W T e formed a brigade line with the 
Second Engineers, a contraband regiment from Louisiana. But 
beside them our superiority was only the more apparent. The 
general was profuse with his compliments. He called up the 
first sergeants of companies, and questioned them as to their 
duties in tactics, etc. The questions which they answered cor- 
rectly would puzzle many of our volunteer officers. And the 
answer of our color sergeant, John Van Slyck, of Company B, 
especially pleased the general. He questioned him as to his 
position in the different movements of the battalion while march- 
ing in line, while faced by the rear rank, and many others. He 
answered promptly and correctly. But when questioned as to 
his position when marching in retreat modestly replied, ' I have 
never been taught to retreat, and hope I shall never have the 
occasion.' The general smiled, but said no more. 



24 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

" The battalion has been very fortunate in obtaining Major 
Comstock for its commander. He is equally liked and respected 
by both officers and men. We have named our camp ' Camp 
Casey,' in honor of Maj.-Gen. Silas Casey, before whose Board of 
Examination we all had to appear. The health of the men is 
excellent ; we have lost but one man since we landed on the 
island, George Wallace, of Company A. The thermometer 
stands here between sixty and ninety degrees, Fahrenheit. I 
have not time to write any more at present. A forward move- 
ment is to be expected in a few days, and whatever transpires I 
will communicate." 

As has already been mentioned by Captain Bishop, Major-Gen- 
eral Dana commanding the Union forces in Texas visited the bat- 
talion on the 27th of January, and expressed himself as highly 
gratified with its appearance. In a letter to Governor Smith, he 
says : 

" I took them entirely by surprise by going over in a small 
boat, but they were ready. The soldier-like conduct of the senti- 
nels on post, and of the main guard at the gate, challenged my 
admiration. The ' assembly ' was sounded, and in five minutes the 
whole battalion, five hundred strong, was in line, and I have 
never found a regiment even on a Sunday morning inspection in 
more perfect condition. Excellence is the proper term to apply 
to its condition and soldierly bearing. The drill was also most 
creditable. Such discipline and order reflect great credit on the 
company officers, and especially on the major in command." 

On the 19th of January, 1864, an unusual scene was disclosed 
to the view of the whole battalion, and is thus described by Lieut. 
Charles P. Gay : 

" This day (19th) we moved our camp nearer to the fort. Cap- 
tain Bucklin was officer of the day ; Lieutenant Stafford, officer of 
the guard; and Lieutenant Bishop, officer of the picket. Early 
in the morning at roll call we were greatly surprised at a sight 
which met our view, apparently in a southwesterly direction. It 
was a mirage which appeared, disclosing a town reflected in the 
clouds, probably Indianola, twenty miles away. The houses, 
trees, and camps were clearly outlined on the sky. We could see 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 2$ 

the smoke from the camp-fires ascending, and the sentries pacing 
their beats. All eyes and glasses were turned upward. It was 
truly a magnificent spectacle, and never to be forgotten by those 
who witnessed it." 

On the 8th of March, 1864, in compliance with Special Orders, 
No. 47, issued by Maj.-Gen. N. J. T. Dana commanding the 
United States forces in Texas, the Second Regiment Engineers, 
Corps d' Afrique, the First Battalion Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery, and the Thirteenth Regiment Corps d' Afrique, 
were temporarily organized as a provisional brigade under the 
command of Col. J. C. Cobb, Second Engineers Corps d' Afrique. 
They were ordered to encamp immediately in rear of Fort Esper- 
anza. Such companies as were occupied at work on the out- 
works were directed to encamp in the neighborhood of their work. 

On the 29th of March the following order was issued by Maj.- 
Gen. John A. McClernand, commanding the Thirteenth Army 

Corps : 

Headquarters, 13TH Army Corps, 

Pass Cavallo, Texas, March 29, 1864. 
Special Orders, No. 7/. 

II. 2. Maj. J. J. Comstock, Jr., Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artil- 
lery, in addition to the command of Fort Esperanza, will assume command 
of the center battery and the left battery on McHenry Bayou. He will 
cause as soon as the engineers have completed these works, the two Dahl- 
gren boat howitzers to be mounted upon the platforms of the center bat- 
tery, and two of the rifled guns, now at the ordnance depot, to be mounted 
upon the platforms of the left battery. A sufficient supply of ammunition 
for the Dahlgren howitzers must be stored in the magazine of the center 
battery ; the ammunition for the field guns in the left battery may be kept 
in the lumber boxes and caissons, which should be suitably placed in the 
rear of the battery. 

3. One company of the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery will 
be detailed for the purpose of serving the guns and guarding the armament 
of these two works. This company must be encamped between and in rear 
of the works. 

By command of 
Maj.-Gen. JOHN A. McCLERNAND, 
Samuel Caldwell, 
Acting- Assistant Adjutant-General- 



26 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

These batteries were subsequently completed by Company B of 
the First Battalion. 

Wednesday, April 5th, Captain Bishop says : " Two rebel 
sloops were captured by the gunboat Estelle. It was thought in 
camp that the enemy's gunboats were coming down upon us. 
Squads were told off for the guns in Fort Esperanza, and every- 
thing put in readiness for action. Everything quiet at reveille." 

On the 10th of April, 1864, Capt. Thomas W. Fry's Company 
(A) was ordered to Aransas Pass 1 on Mustang Island, as the fol- 
lowing extract from special orders from the headquarters of 
Thirteenth Army Corps will indicate : 

Headquarters Thirteenth Army Corps, 

Pass Cavallo, Tex., April 10, 1864. 
Special Orders, No. 76. 

V. Company A, Fourteenth Regiment Rhode Island Volunteer Heavy 
Artillery, is hereby detached from Major Comstock's battalion and will be 
reported by the senior officer, Capt. Thomas W. Fry, to Major Thompson, 
at Aransas Pass, to take charge of the guns at that station. 

By command of 

Major-General JOHN A. McCLERNAND, 
Samuel Caldwell, 
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. 

Lieut. Charles H. Chace, of Company A, in describing Aransas 
Pass, says: 

" There was a small earthwork at Aransas Pass that guarded 
the approaches to Corpus Christi. In this earthwork were 
mounted some four or five smooth-bore pieces of artillery that 
showed evidences of service in the Mexican War, as inscriptions 
to that effect were found on some of the guns, and I should con- 
jecture that the others, by their appearance of antiquity, had 
been in use in some war of the ' Middle Ages.' " 



1 Aransas Pass, formerly Rockport, is a post town, capital of Aransas County, Texas, 
situated 130 miles by rail southwest from San Antonio, on Aransas Bay. The works at 
this place were captured from the Confederates on the 17th of November, 1S63. The 
troops were under command of Brig.-Gen. Thomas E. G. Ransom, who carried the enemy's 
works commanding Aransas Pass after a gallant assault. 




MAT. RICHARD G. SHAW 



CHAPTER IV 

Second Battalion Departs for New Orleans with Capt. Nelson 
Kenyon in Command — Captain Addeman's Account of the 
Voyage — Arrival at New Orleans — Ordered to English 
Turn — Life in Camp — Arrival of Major Richard G. Shaw — 
The Battalion Ordered to Plaquemine, La. — Burning of 
the Steamer "J. H. Russell." 

ON the 2 1 st of January, 1864, the Second Battalion, under 
command of Capt. Nelson Kenyon (Major Shaw not 
having yet reported for duty), sailed in the transport Daniel 
Webster for New Orleans. 

The orders directing this battalion to proceed to its destina- 
tion read as follows : 

War Department, 
Adjutant-General's Office, 
Washington, Jan. 8, 1864. 
Special Orders, No. 11. 

Extract. 

26. The 2d Battalion 14th Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Major Richard 
G. Shaw, commanding, now at Dutch Island, R. I., will proceed, without 
delay, to New Orleans, La., and report to Major-General Banks, com- 
manding Department of the Gulf. 

The Quartermaster's Department will furnish the necessary transporta- 
tion. 



By order of the Secretary of War, 

E. D. TOWNSEND, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 

Capt. Joshua M. Addeman, in a paper read before the Soldiers' 
and Sailors' Historical Society, of Rhode Island, entitled Retni- 
niscences of Two Years with the Colored Troops, has so graphically 
described the movements of this battalion that we have taken the 
liberty of quoting freely from his paper. He says : 



28 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

" The incidents of the voyage it is not necessary to recite to 
any comrade whose chance it was to make a trip in an army 
transport, which had long since seen its better days, and which 
had been practically condemned before Uncle Sam found for it 
such profitable use. The men packed like sheep in the hold ; 
the officers, though far better off as to quarters, yet crowded too 
much for convenience and comfort, the inevitable sea-sickness, 
the scanty rations, and, what was worse, the extreme scarcity of 
water, were annoyances but the counterpart of those endured by 
many brave men who preceded us to the scene of duty. But in 
the main the weather favored, and on the hurricane deck we 
spent the hours off duty, gazing far across the illimitable waste of 
waters, as day after day we approached a warmer clime, with 
its glowing sunshine and glittering waves, and the deep blue 
sky bending down in an unbroken circle around us. The 
rebel cruisers were then in the midst of their destructive work, 
and it was natural, as we caught sight of a distant vessel, to 
speculate whether it was a hostile or friendly craft. When we 
were in the latitude of Charleston, a steamer appeared in the far 
distance, then a flash, a puff of smoke, and a loud report notified 
us that it was sending us its compliments. It approached nearer, 
a boat put out, and officers from the gunboat Connecticut came on 
board, examined our papers and soon allowed us to proceed. 
The weather rapidly grew warmer, and our winter clothing 
proved very uncomfortable. The steamer's supply of water was 
exhausted, and we had to depend on sea water, distilled by the 
vessel's boilers for all uses. The allowance of an officer was, I 
think, a pint a day. Warm and insipid, its only use, as I 
remember, was for our morning ablutions, which were more a 
matter of form than of substance. In rounding the coast of 
Florida we bumped, one evening, on a sand bar or coral reef. 
I was very unceremoniously tumbled over, and the game of back- 
gammon, in which I was engaged with a brother officer, was, of 
course, ended at once. Rushing on deck, we found ourselves 
clear of the obstruction and again on our way. But the breakers, 
in plain sight, gave us assurance of the peril we had so narrowly 
escaped. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 29 

" In the early morning of February 2d, we crossed the bar, 
and noted well that line stretching far to the right and left of us, 
drawn with almost mathematical exactness, which marked the 
demarcation between the clear waters of the Gulf and the turbid 
waters of the Mississippi. In going up the river, the buckets 
were constantly dropped into the muddy stream, and their con- 
tents, when allowed to stand for a few minutes, would soon 
furnish an abundance of that luxury we all craved so much, — 
clear water, cooled by the ice and snows of the far north. 
Reaching the inhabited portions of the river, we saw the planters 
busy with their spring work, and, though the air was chilled with 
the icy breath of northern climes, the orange trees in blossom 
and the green shrubbery on the shores, gave indications of the 
semi-tropical climate we had reached." 

On the 3d of February, 1864, steamer Daniel Webster-, with the 
Second Battalion, arrived at New Orleans and tied up at the 
Bull's Head wharf. On the opposite side of the street was the 
" Old Bull's Head Coffee House," from which undoubtedly the 
wharf derived its name. Capt. Nelson Kenyon, commanding the 
battalion, went on shore to report for orders. While lying here 
we had an opportunity of observing the shipping at the wharves. 
That portion of the city which came under our observation 
seemed almost deserted. The levees, which were once piled with 
cotton as far up and down the river as the eye could reach, were now 
occupied chiefly by hucksters of apples and oranges. These 
women, old and young, never found better patrons than the men 
of this battalion, who freely exchanged their " greenbacks " for 
the yellow fruit. Here we heard the French, Spanish, German, 
and English languages spoken by Negroes, mulattoes, quadroons, 
and whites. The words, " picayune " (six and one-quarter cents), 
and " bit " (twelve and one-half cents), fell upon our ears at every 
step as we passed through the trafficking crowd. There were 
great numbers of cotton presses whose " occupations were gone," 
they being either deserted or occupied by our troops as barracks. 
We learned that the Third Rhode Island Cavalry was stationed in 
a cotton press on Calliope Street, and the day after our arrival it 
was inspected by General Banks, and made a street parade, pre- 
senting a fine appearance. 



30 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

On being informed that there were several cases of mumps and 
measles among the men of the Second Battalion on board the 
transport, General Banks caused the following communication to 
be forwarded to Maj.-Gen. J. J. Reynolds commanding Defences 

of New Orleans : 

Hd. Qrs. Dept. of the Gulf, 

New Orleans, Feb. 3, 1864. 
Maj.-Gen. J. J. Reynolds, 

Cowd'g- Defences of New Orleans. 

General : The Second Battalion of the Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery (Colored) between 500 and 600 strong, has arrived on the 
steamship Daniel Webster. It was intended that the battalion should 
immediately join the First Battalion of the same regiment, now with 
General Dana, but as two contagious diseases have broken out among 
them (mumps and measles), the commanding general does not desire to 
send them among the troops in Texas until the disease shall have run out. 
The battalion is, therefore, ordered to report to you, and the commanding 
general wishes it placed in a position where it can be kept well guarded and 
the spreading of the disease among other soldiers and citizens prevented. 
Perhaps some position can be found below the town, or on the lake shore, 
which fulfill the conditions. 

I am, general, very respectfully, 

Your obedient servant, 

CHAS. P. STONE, 
Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff . 

In compliance with the above orders the Second Battalion pro- 
ceeded to English Turn about fifteen miles down the river, and 
went into camp. In honor of our senior captain temporarily 
commanding the battalion, the camp was named "Camp Kenyon." 
Captain Addeman says in relation to this place : 
" It derived its name as I remember the tradition from the fact 
that as the commander of some English vessel was slowly making 
his way up what was then an unknown and perhaps unex- 
plored body of water, he was met by some French explorer, 
coming from the opposite direction, who gave him to understand 
that all the country he had seen in coming up the river was, by 
prior discovery, the rightful possession of the French monarch. 
Though no Frenchman had perhaps seen it, yet with his facile 
tongue he worked persuasion in the mind of the bluff English- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 3 1 

man, who, at this point, turned about and put out to sea, — hence 
its name, English Turn. We found here relics of very early times 
in the form of an old earthwork, and an angle of a brick wall, 
built when, and whether by French or Spaniard, none could tell." 

Harpers Weekly for Oct. 10, 1S96, says: "It seems strange 
that at this late day the United States should have determined 
that the proper location for the defence of New Orleans and the 
Mississippi Valley is just where Bienville suggested two hundred 
years ago. The United States, and afterwards the Confederate 
States, spent large sums of money on Forts Jackson and St. 
Philip, nearly a hundred miles below New Orleans, and near the 
mouths of the Mississippi. These were ' the forts ' Farragut 
passed with such ease. Major Quinn, in charge of the Engineer's 
Department here, protests against any more forts in the swamp. 
He recommends English Turn, only a comparatively short dis- 
tance from New Orleans, as the best point of defence. It was 
here that in 1699 the French met and turned back the English, 
who had come with a peaceful fleet to take possession of the 
Mississippi, and to occupy and colonize the adjacent territory, 
Bienville, who had not then built New Orleans, saw in this bend 
the best point of defence against an invading army. Major 
Quinn decides to-day that Bienville was right, and that the engi- 
neers who from 1803 to 1896 have favored the forts below and 
near the mouth of the river were wrong." 

Captain Addeman in speaking of our life at Camp Kenyon 
(English Turn) says : " Here we soon selected a site and laid 
out our camp. The time rapidly passed in the busy occupations 
which each day brought, in little excursions into the surrounding 
country, in conversations with the colored people, whose sad 
memories of the old slavery days recalled vividly the experiences 
of Uncle Tom and his associates in Mrs. Stowe's famous tale. 
Nor were the days unvaried by plenty of fun. Music, vocal and 
instrumental, we had in abundance. The mimic talents of our 
men led to the performance of a variety of entertainments, and in 
their happy-go-easy dispositions, their troubles sat very lightly on 
them. Their extravagancies of expression were by no means an 
unremarkable feature. When I at first heard their threats to 



32 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

each other, couched sometimes in the most diabolical language, I 
had deemed it my duty at once to rush into the company street 
and prevent what, among white men, I would suppose to be the 
prelude to a bloody fight. ' Oh, captain,' would be the explana- 
tion, ' We'se only a foolin'.' 

" While here, we had a little flurry of snow, which reminded us 
of what we had left in abundance behind, but which was a 
startling novelty to the natives, few, if any, of whom, had ever 
seen anything like it before. Their explanation was that the 
Yankees had brought it with them. In the course of a week or 
two, an assistant inspector-general gave us a pretty thorough 
overhauling ; but what astonished him the most was to find us in 
so healthy a condition ; for it appeared that because of a few 
cases of measles on board ship, we had been represented as being 
in very bad shape, and it was for sanitary reasons that we were 
sent to English Turn. 

" We now began to hope for some change. The place was de- 
cidedly unhealthy. Our men were dropping off rapidly from a 
species of putrid sore throat which was very prevalent. The soil 
was so full of moisture that we had to use the levee for a burial 
ground. Elsewhere a grave dug two feet deep would rapidly fill 
with water, and to cover a coffin decently it was necessary that 
two men should stand on it, while the extemporized sextons com- 
pleted their task. 

" Washington's birthday was duly celebrated, and foot-ball, 
wheel-barrow and sack races, among other sports, furnished fun 
for the whole camp. Even the inevitable greased pig was pro- 
vided, but he was so greasy that he got over the lines into the 
swamps — and — freedom. 

" On the 4th of March, and on the following day it was my 
good fortune to witness, in New Orleans, the inauguration of 
Governor Hahn, who, by some form of election, had been chosen 
the chief executive. The unclouded sky, the rich foliage, and the 
beautiful atmosphere, combined to make a glorious day, and the 
spectacular arrangements were in keeping. The place was 
Lafayette Square. Flags of all nations waved in the breeze. In 
seats, arranged tier above tier, were five thousand school children 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 33 

of the city, dressed in white, with ribbons and sashes of the 
national colors, while many thousands of the citizens were gath- 
ered as spectators. Patriotic songs were sung by the little folks ; 
five hundred musicians filled the air with sweet sounds, and in 
the "Anvil Chorus," which was sung, fifty sons of Vulcan kept 
time on as many veritable anvils ; while some half-dozen batte- 
ries of artillery came in heavy on the choruses. These were fired 
simultaneously, by an electrical arrangement, and the whole was 
under charge of P. S. Gilmore, a name not unknown to fame in 
grand musical combinations. An elaborate address by General 
Banks, then commanding the department, was an interesting fea- 
ture of the occasion." 

On the 3d of March Maj. Richard G. Shaw, who had been a 
captain in the Third Regiment Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, 
and in command of Battery Gregg, on Morris Island, South Caro- 
lina, arrived and assumed command of the battalion. 

Captain Addeman says : " Our life here was varied by little of 
special interest. Of course there was no enemy at hand except 
those foes which a hot climate breeds so rapidly. A mysterious 
order came one day to detail one hundred men ' to join the expedi- 
tion,' and we were notified that a steamer would call for them on 
the morrow. Details of picked men were selected from each com- 
pany. Five days rations and forty rounds of ammunition were 
dealt out to each, and in light marching order they waited several 
days for the steamer to appear. It was in vain, however, and we 
reluctantly gave up the prospect of some little excitement. We 
came to the conclusion that somebody at headquarters had for- 
gotten to countermand the order, or, like Mr. Toots, had deemed 
it of no consequence. We discussed the varying prospects of 
change, sometimes coming as a rumor that we should be ordered 
to Texas, where was the First Battalion of our regiment, some- 
times that we should join the Red River expedition, which was 
then forming, or the expedition against Mobile, which was in con- 
templation." 

On the 7th of March, 1864, our hearts were cheered by the 
prospect of a change, as the following order received by Major 
Shaw will indicate : 
3 



34 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

HDqRS. Department of the Gulf, 

New Orleans, La., March 7, 1864. 
Special Orders, No. 58. 

2. I. The Second Battalion Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery 
is relieved from duty in the Defences of New Orleans, and will proceed to 
Plaquemine (La.), to garrison the fort at that place. 

II. The Forty-second Ohio and One Hundred and Twentieth Ohio Vol- 
unteers, now serving at Plaquemine, will, on the arrival of the Second 
Battalion Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery proceed to Baton 
Rouge, and report to the commanding officer of that district for duty. 

By command of 

Major-General BANKS, 

Richd. B. Irwin, 
Assistant Adjutant- General. 

Soon afterwards, the Second Battalion proceeded to Plaque- 
mine, on the steamer Suffolk, and relieved the Forty-second Ohio 
Infantry, 1 and went into camp near the fort. This town is situ- 
ated on the west bank of the Mississippi River, about one hun- 
dred and ten miles above New Orleans and a few miles below and 
on the opposite bank from Baton Rouge. 

Captain Addeman in his paper says : 

" This town was at the entrance of the Bayou Plaquemine, of 
which Longfellow makes mention in the story of Evangeline's 
search for her lover ; a description which gives so good an idea 
of the bayous by which Louisiana is intersected, that I quote it in 
this connection : 

' They . . . entering the Bayou of Plaquemine' 2 
Soon were lost in a maze of sluggish and devious waters, 
Which like a network of steel extended in every direction. 
Over their heads the towering and tenebrous boughs of the cypress 
Waved like banners that hang on the walls of ancient cathedrals. 
Deathlike the silence seemed, and unbroken save by the herons 
Home to their roosts in the cedar trees returning at sunset, 
Or by the owl, as he greeted the moon with demoniac laughter.' 



1 The first colonel of this regiment was the lamented Gen. James A. Garfield, afterwards 
President of the United States. 

2 It is said that when Iberville ascended the Mississippi and discovered this bayou he 
named it (Plaquemine), after the fruit of certain trees which appeared to have exclusive 
possession of its banks. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 35 

"We found the state of affairs very different from the tranquil 
neighborhood we had just left. The surrounding country was 
infested with guerilla bands, and in the jail were a number of 
rebel prisoners who had been captured in recent raids. The 
latter received from the town's people very gratifying evidences 
of sympathy, and in their comparatively comfortable quarters and 
abundant supplies, afforded a vivid contrast to the treatment 
received by our boys at Libby and Andersonville. Intimations 
were quite freely expressed by the prisoners that it would soon be 
their turn to guard us, and we were cautioned by friends and 
from headquarters to be on the alert against a sudden attack. 

"An earthwork had been begun here by our predecessors. It 
had four bastions, one of which was assigned to each of our com- 
panies. The work was in a very incomplete condition, and 
except for the protection its parapets afforded, would have been 
of little service. In the threatening aspect of affairs, it became 
necessary at once to strengthen our defences, and, under the 
direction of an engineer, details of men were set to work, and 
rapid progress was made." 

The earliest mention made of Union troops occupying Plaque- 
mine, La., was in December, 1862, when the Union forces under 
Maj. James H. Bogert, with three companies of the One Hundred 
and Sixty-second New York, were ordered to Plaquemine. The 
enemy attacked the Union pickets across Bayou Plaquemine, with 
no effect. Lieutenant-Commander Roe, of the gunboat Katahdin, 
threw several shells into the woods, evidently scattering the 
Confederates, as no more was heard from them. 

On the 4th of January, 1863, Lieut. Solon A. Perkins, com- 
manding a company of the Second Massachusetts Cavalry, sent 
out a squad to Indian Village, about eight miles distant. They 
returned with the report that they had gone within a mile of that 
place, and that the enemy had a large force of infantry, artillery, 
and cavalry posted, with General Sibley in command. In view of 
this fact, Major Bogert decided to withdraw from Plaquemine, 
and accordingly did so, and returned 10 Camp Parapet. 

On the evening of the day after the arrival of the Second Battal- 
ion at Plaquemine all were startled at seeing a steamer approach- 



36 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

ing the landing, wrapped in a blaze of fire from stem to stern. 
She proved to be the/. H. Russell, running between New Orleans 
and Vicksburg, and heavily laden with a very valuable cargo of 
cotton, mules, sheep, and hogs. In landing at a point above, 
the sparks from the torch — a wire basket, filled with pine knots, 
and used after dark to light the loading and unloading of the 
steamer — had set the cotton afire. The motion of the boat and 
the perfect draft from her construction, peculiar to nearly all the 
river craft, of course spread the fire with great rapidity, and only 
time sufficient to rescue the passengers was permitted. Leaving 
out the sad associations connected with it, the spectacle was 
almost sublime, everything being of so combustible a nature the 
fire had complete sway, and for a considerable distance around 
made objects almost as visible as at noonday. Large quantities 
of the cotton, partially on fire, floated down the stream, and 
undoubtedly gladdened the heart of many a lucky individual that 
picked it up. Still more of it was secured by small boats hover- 
ing about the stream, and hauled on to the bank. The cries of 
the poor animals confined within the circle of the flames was 
most piteous to hear, but with a singular fatality they would rush 
into the fire and thus perish, instead of springing overboard 
where there was a chance of safety. A few, however, broke 
loose, and, as the fire crowded them towards the stern, would 
rush overboard and make their way to the shore. The fire 
spreading so rapidly allowed the passengers barely an oppor- 
tunity to escape with their lives. Lieutenant Goffe headed a 
detachment of soldiers and brought an antiquated hand-engine 
from some place in the town, and kept up a constant stream of 
water on the neighboring buildings. One of them was used as a 
magazine, and, being built of wood only, was at one time in 
considerable danger. A single spark in that magazine would 
have made a sensation much more lively than even the destruc- 
tion of the steamer, and would have left but little of the town of 
Plaquemine. During the conflagration an alarm was raised that 
our pickets had been fired on, and the battalion was immedi- 
ately formed in line, prepared to repel the enemy. But scouts 
were sent out who returned and reported no occasion for alarm. 




Sl'RGEON BENON1 CARPENTER 



CHAPTER V 

Color Presented to the Third Battalion — Smallpox on Dutch 
Island — Departure of the Battalion for New Orleans — 
Arrival at that City — Description of the Voyage — Ordered 
to Camp Parapet — Lieutenant-Colonel Viall Assumes Com- 
mand of the Post — Captain Southwick's Description of 
the Place — First Battalion Evacuates Fort Esperanza 
and Proceeds to Camp Parapet — Capt. George A. Spink 
with His Company Ordered to Garrison Fort Banks — School 
for Enlisted Men — A Paper Published by the Enlisted Men 
Entitled "The Black Warrior." 

IT was intended that the Third Battalion should follow the First 
and Second in February, 1864. For that purpose the steamer 
Daniel Webster, the same that had conveyed the Second to Eng- 
lish Turn, was sent to Dutch Island to convey the Third to New 
Orleans ; but simultaneously with its arrival February 24th, the 
smallpox broke out among the troops, and they were forced to 
remain on the island for over a month longer. 

The order directing the Third Battalion to proceed to New 
Orleans read as follows : 

War Department, 
Adjutant-General's Office, 
Washington, February 5th, 1864. 
Special Orders, No. jy. 

Extract. 

59. The 3d Battalion, 14th Regiment Rhode Island Heavy Artillery 
(Colored), together with the field and staff of the regiment, now at Dutch 
Island, R. I., will proceed immediately to New Orleans, La., and on its 
arrival will report to Major-General Banks, commanding Department of 
the Gulf. 

The Quartermaster's Department will furnish the necessary transporta- 
tion. 

By order of the Secretary of War, 

E. D. TOWNSEND, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 



38 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

On the evening of Feb. 6, 1864, in Railroad Hall, a beautiful 
silk standard donated to the Third Battalion by the colored 
ladies of the city of New York, was formally presented to the 
battalion. Several of the commissioned and non-commissioned 
officers were present to receive it. After an exhibition drill by 
a detachment from the battalion, under the direction of Lieut. 
Daniel J. Viall, executed in good style and to the admiration of a 
very large company of spectators, Mr. James J. Spellman, of New 
York, was introduced by Colonel Viall, and made the presentation 
address as follows : 

" Colonel Viall and Officers of the Fourteenth Regiment Rhode Island 
Colored Heavy Artillery : 

" It is with pleasure I am here to-night bearing with me a 
standard as a token of the interest which the ladies of New York 
feel in your prosperity, and as an expression of their gratitude for 
your noble response in aid of the national cause. It is not neces- 
sary by mere words to ask you to protect and cherish it, when I 
have a knowledge of the gallant achievements of your forefathers 
in this noble State. I am assured that it will be kept as pure and 
unsullied as it is now presented. Colonel, it is my privilege to 
ask your acceptance of this gift in behalf of the ladies of New 
York, as a token of their regard." 

Colonel Viall responded in fitting terms and delivered the flag 
to the sergeant appointed to receive it amid hearty cheers from 
officers and men. An address was also made by Mr. George 
Downing, a prominent colored citizen of Newport. 

The flag was a very rich and costly one, presenting on one side 
the arms of the State, and on the other those of the United States. 
The exercises passed off with great eclat, and the occasion was 
one of hearty enjoyment to the crowded assembly. The evolu- 
tions executed by the squad showed them to be very proficient in 
the tactics. 

Colonel Viall was, on the 19th of February, made the recipient 
of a splendid sabre and equipments, a gift from the officers 
of the Fourth Regiment Rhode Island Detached Militia, which 
he had recently commanded. On his way home from Dutch 
Island, Friday evening, February 19th, having come up from the 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 39 

camp to spend a day or two previous to leaving for the front, he 

was requested by several friends to step into the store of Messrs. 

Bowen & Clark, in Weeden's Block, on Westminster Street 

(Providence). On going in he was escorted to a table upon 

which were spread an elegant sabre and other equipments. 

The following letter (accompanying the gift) to Colonel Viall 

indicated the regard and esteem in which he was held by the 

officers of the Fourth Regiment: 

Providence, Feb. 19, 1864. 
To Lieut. -Col. Nelson Viall. 

Dear Sir : The officers of the Fourth Regiment Rhode Island De- 
tached Militia in taking leave of you as their commanding officer, desire 
to express their appreciation of the uniform kindness and courtesy that 
has marked your relations with them. 

They gratefully acknowledge your patriotic efforts to perfect them in 
military drill and discipline, and feel that the good name which that regi- 
ment has gained is due to your faithful labors. 

While thus expressing their gratitude, they ask your acceptance of the 
accompanying tokens of remembrance, with the hope that on the distant 
field of duty, they may recall the pleasant hours we have passed together, 
and remind you of friends who will rejoice at the successes that must attend 
your services in the defence of our countrv. 

In behalf of the commissioned, non-commissioned, and staff officers of 
the Fourth Regiment Rhode Island Detached Militia, 

I am very respectfully yours, 

THOMAS A. DOYLE, 

For Committee. 
To Col. Nelson Viall, Commanding- Fourth Regiment Rhode Island 
Detached Militia. 

In consequence of the prevalence of smallpox among the 
troops on Dutch Island, and the insufficiency of hospital stores, 
the ladies of the Rhode Island Relief Association generously 
contributed a large supply for that worthy object. 

The following letter from Surgeon Benoni Carpenter explains 

itself : 

Dutch Island, R. I., March 2, 1864. 

Gen. George Lewis Cooke, £)_. M. Gen. R. I. 

Dear Sir : Allow me to express to you, and through you to the ladies 
of the Rhode Island Relief Association, my sincere thanks, and through 
me the grateful acknowledgments of the sick soldiers, for the greatly 
needed donation of sheets made on the 19th instant. 



40 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

We have long needed this kind of aid. especially since variolous appeared 
in our hospital, but knew not where to apply for it. 

Such donations do much towards relieving the sufferings of the sick in 
camp, and greatly add to their comfort. 

Yours very respectfully, 

B. CARPENTER, 
Surgeon 14th R. I. Heavy Artillery. 

On the 3d of April, 1864, Lieutenant-Colonel Viall with 
the Third Battalion sailed in the transport America for New 
Orleans, which place it reached on the 15th. This transport was 
a staunch propeller, seven months from stocks, fitted up with 
excellent accommodations, had stout ribs, a steady keel, and 
altogether a queen to the Daniel Webster, on which the Second 
Battalion embarked. She was commanded by Captain Share, a 
fine specimen of a sea-captain. He was no pompous, self-sufficient 
individual, full of airs, fussy and furious, but a steady, calm, and, 
withal humorous and well-met fellow ; a tough gentleman, who 
wore his slippers down at the heels, and buttoned his vest just 
where his corpulency pressed hardest for more room ; with the 
eye of the north, grey, blue, and clear, a Norwegian by birth, 
and it seems by nature, too, since he followed in the wake of his 
ancestors, and loved the sea, as they loved it. His ship and 
himself carried its precious cargo safe to its destination. 

Lieut. Daniel J. Viall, who had been detailed as instructor in 
artillery practice to the non-commissioned officers of the several 
companies as they arrived upon Dutch Island, remained behind 
with the Third Battalion and accompanied it to New Orleans. His 
ability and efficiency in this branch of the service was recognized 
by his superiors, and among the enlisted men his services were 
appreciated, so much so that on the arrival of the Third Battalion 
at New Orleans and he was about to take his departure for his 
battalion (the First), then stationed at Fort Esperanza, Texas, he 
was escorted to the boat by all the non-commissioned officers, 
except those on duty, and, accompanied by the band, paraded 
through some of the principal streets of the city, under the 
command of Sergt.-Maj. Zebedee Howland. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 41 

A member of the Battalion in writing to the Providence Even- 
ing Bulletin, says : 

"After a ten days' passage (rough and pleasant) from Dutch 
Island, the Third Battalion arrived yesterday at the Crescent 
City. Glad were we on reaching land once more, at the pros- 
pect of soon rejoining our comrades-in-arms, and of entering on 
active service in the field. 

"We left the Narragansett on the 4th instant, during a north- 
east storm, which lasted until past Hatteras. A few rays of sun- 
shine had inspired some hope of a fine trip, but before sunset of 
the first day the clouds grew dark and thick, and the sea rough 
and boisterous. We had scarcely cleared Beaver Tail, ere coun- 
tenances grew pale, stomachs restless, and limbs weak and tot- 
tering. From the seclusion of staterooms came sighs as from 
the lower regions, while but a few succeeded in maintaining an 
equilibrium, or enjoying on deck the sport of old ocean, or a sight 
of the fast fleeting shore. 

" Rounding the cape only added to the discomfort of us all, 
for the sea did indeed rage and swell, rocking our good vessel as 
a tiny cradle on its bosom. Following the storm we were favored 
with a succession of sunny and cloudless days, with a smooth and 
placid sea, until reaching Balize, at the mouth of the Mississippi. 
Crossed the bar here on the 13th instant, and continued our sail 
up the Mississippi, arriving at 2 p. m. in this port (New Orleans). 

" Reaching Florida's coast, we exchanged cabin seclusion for 
the upper deck promenade, and anthracite fires for the mild and 
sunny air ; eschewing overcoats and extra clothing, and whiling 
away the hours in reading, chatting, smoking, playing whist or 
euchre, plying the fishing tackle, or rifling ocean birds. An 
occasional passing of a sail, or the sight of a point of land, an 
interview of Indian Inlet, and the Tortugas, with the blockaders 
Roebuck and Clyde, a view of the reefs with their warning lights 
off Florida coast, of the massive Fort Jefferson at the Tortugas, 
the town of Key West, etc., was all that broke the monotony of 
our ocean passage or varied the scene. 

"Our sail up the Mississippi was delightful, though made 
during a rainstorm. About ten miles above the city we reached 



42 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

quarantine, but were allowed a free passage onward as no signs 
of 'variolous' were visible, or any large amount of sickness on 
board. 

"The muddy, yet noble stream of the Mississippi presented 
a truly panoramic scene. With the fields it washes covered with 
verdure, the gardens it borders fragrant with flowers, the estates 
and plantations it blesses with annual flows and sugar crops, and 
with the winding of its waters through miles of territory, it cannot 
be considered aught than a mighty river. 

" Tidings came last night of our late fight in Western Louisi- 
ana which was not a victory or a defeat. News from authentic 
sources will soon reach you concerning it, so we will leave it to 
other pens to describe. We have had a fine captain and crew to 
deal with, a noble steamer to convey us here, with but little sick- 
ness on board, and but one death. Private Watkins, of Company 
M, died of apoplexy on the 12th instant, and was buried with 
military honors on the 14th, the purser reading the Church Burial 
Service. We committed his body to the deep, a new and solemn 
sight to the most of us, assured, however, of a time ' when the 
sea shall give up her dead,' and of a ' life in the world to come.' 

" We have received orders to move to Carrolton, a post nine 
miles up the river, but our stay there we think will be temporary. 
To-day we have had a general inspection, cleaning of the ship 
and pleasant promenades in the streets of the city. To see our 
battalion at ' ease arms ' and all on pier 46 singing ' The Battle 
Cry of Freedom,' and other airs, or otherwise recreating them- 
selves, or marching and drilling to the tune of ' Yankee Doodle ' 
and 'John Brown,' would convince the fiercest copperhead that a 
' Negro ' is somebody after all, and worthy of Uncle Sam's patron- 
age. ' Babylon is fallen, we are going to occupy the land,' will 
not only be the subject of a musical strain by our boys, but a 
stern reality, also, in the future." 

A singular incident occurred on the voyage to New Orleans : 
One of the men of the battalion, a man of Moorish descent, was 
the possessor of a thick mass of coarse, black hair, so tangled 
and matted together that it was impossible for comb or brush to 
penetrate it. It naturally became an abiding-place for vermin. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 43 

He was ordered by Colonel Viall to have his hair cut. The sol- 
dier refused to comply with this order, giving as a reason that it 
was contrary to his religion. Lieut. Daniel J. Viall, who was on 
duty as officer of the guard that day was directed to see that the 
colonel's order was enforced. The man was brought on deck by 
main force, and his arms and legs securely pinioned. A barber 
was summoned, and the victim was shorn of his heavy locks. 
As soon as he was released he made a rush for the lieutenant, 
who was standing near by, and, seizing him, endeavored to 
throw him overboard, and would have succeeded in accomplish- 
ing his purpose had not one of the guard who was in the 
vicinity come to the rescue of the lieutenant. So unexpected 
was the attack that the lieutenant was partially over the rail 
before he fully realized the situation. The man returned to duty 
in his company, but was ever after inclined to moroseness, and 
seemed to feel that great injustice had been done him. 

One evening at Camp Parapet, the call was sounded for dress 
parade. Lieut. Martin S. Smith, of Company K, found the man 
sitting near his quarters, apparently cleaning his musket. The 
lieutenant ordered him to " Hurry up and fall in for parade." 
The man replied ; " I am not going on parade to-night," and as 
the lieutenant turned to call the guard to arrest him for insubor- 
dination, the soldier placed the muzzle of his musket in his 
mouth, and, discharging it, blew out his brains. From remarks 
previously made to his comrades it was evident that the act was 
premeditated. 

On arriving at New Orleans the Third Battalion was ordered 
by General Banks to proceed to Camp Parapet, at Carrolton, 
about eight miles from the city of New Orleans. At that time 
Carrolton was a post village of Jefferson Parish, but it is now 
in the seventh district or seventh and sixteenth wards of the city. 

Capt. Henry K. Southwick says : 

"At the time of the arrival of the Third Battalion at Camp 
Parapet the military district of Carrolton was under the jurisdic- 
tion of the Defences of New Orleans. It was of small area, 
comprising only the territory from the suburbs of New Orleans 
north to College Point and Pass Manchac, and from the Missis- 



44 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

sippi River to Lake Pontchartrain. It was an important com- 
mand in two respects : It covered the city against attack from 
the north, and it included the rendezvous at Greenville for troops 
arriving in the Department of the Gulf. It embraced an exten- 
sive and comparatively high and dry area between the river and 
New Orleans and Carrolton Railroad, and afforded at this point 
the most commodious and accessible facilities for troops recup- 
erating and reorganizing. To this rendezvous, minus his leg 
lost at Port Hudson, came Gen. Thomas W. Sherman, with his 
victorious troops, and here were his headquarters until assigned 
to the command of the Defences of New Orleans. 

" The headquarters of the district were formerly in a dwelling- 
house opposite the railroad station at Carrolton village, about two 
miles south of Camp Parapet. Shortly after the arrival of the 
Third Battalion (about July), district headquarters were removed 
to Camp Parapet. Here headquarters were established in a large 
mansion about one thousand feet south of the fort ; between 
were quite a number of small dwellings — a sort of hamlet. 

"At this time Brig.-Gen. B. S. Roberts, U. S. Vols., was in com- 
mand of Carrolton District, and Col. R. Wilson, Fourteenth New 
Hampshire Infantry, of Post Parapet. April 23d Colonel Wilson 
succeeded to the command of the district, and Lieutenant-Colonel 
Viall to that of the post, while that of the Third Battalion de- 
volved upon Capt. Samuel Farnum, who retained it till May 27th, 
on the arrival from Texas of the First Battalion under Maj. 
Joseph J. Comstock, Jr. Major Comstock thus had two battalions 
under him till the 5th of June, when the return of General Roberts 
brought Lieutenant-Colonel Viall back to his own troops. Gen- 
eral Roberts had returned, however, only for a certain purpose 
and a brief term, namely, to institute sanitary measures for the 
approaching sickly season. 

"On June 21, 1S64, General Roberts formally transferred the 
district command to Col. N. B. Bartram, Twentieth United States 
Colored Infantry, a regiment recruited in New York as the Four- 
teenth was from Rhode Island, the material of which was excel- 
lent, and its officers unusually high grade, a characteristic naturally 
due to the method of their selection. At the same date Lieutenant- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 45 

Colonel Yiall succeeded to the command of Post Parapet, and 
these two commands were thus permanently filled, and not in- 
tended to be interfered with by casual arrivals or departures of 
other regiments within these territories. With the departure of 
Colonel Bartram and his regiment at the end of July, 1865, the 
district was abolished and Lieutenant-Colonel Viall reported his 
post direct to Headquarters Southern District of Louisiana. 

" Meanwhile June 30, 1864, Lieutenant-Colonel Viall had been 
assigned to the command of the artillery at Parapet. He held at 
once from that time the command of post and the Third Battalion 
of his regiment, for the First Battalion was already under orders 
for Fort Jackson. The First Battalion departed on the 3d of July, 
1864, and remained separated until the entire regiment assembled 
for the first and last time at the end of September, 1865. 

" The fort at Post Parapet was a massive work, and a line of 
heavy earthworks called the Parapet extended from this fort to 
the New Orleans and Jackson Railroad, that ran not far from 
the edge of the swamp. The railroad was in military posses- 
sion, and only operated as far as Pass Manchac, the water 
channel connecting Lake Maupas with Pontchartrain. Along 
this railroad were small picket posts, with a stronger detach- 
ment at the Pass. Beyond and east of the railroad were lighter 
earthworks, and a tall lookout tower constructed of timber, 
was situated near the Metarie Ridge Road, a back way, as it 
were, into the city of New Orleans from the north. The long 
celebrated Metarie race-tracks were located here. The levee 
road passed through the fort and across its drawbridges, spanning 
its wide ditches. By this road substantially all the land travel 
from the north passed to the city. The levee was twelve or fifteen 
feet above this road, and at high water it was brim to top of 
levee. Steamboats steamed along as it were above the horizon 
overhead. Camp Parapet was the comparatively open and dry 
territory south of the Parapet proper. Here were barracks of 
unpainted lumber, already occupied by other troops, but which 
soon came into occupancy by the Fourteenth, and remained so 
till the end of the service. 

"On the 30th of June, 1864, the Third Battalion under Lieu- 
tenant-Colonel Viall came formally into possession of Fort Banks 



46 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

and the Parapet. Capt. George A. Spink, with his company (L), 
was assigned to garrison Fort Banks, which was situated on the 
western bank of the Mississippi, directly opposite Parapet. 
The territory over which Captain Spink had control extended from 
Fort Banks to Donaldsonville, a distance of nearly seventy miles." 
The following order, detailing Lieutenant-Colonel Viall to this 
responsible position, issued by Gen. Thomas W. Sherman, com- 
manding the Defences of New Orleans, reads as follows : 

Head Qjts., So. Div. of La., 

New Orleans, La., July 1, 1894. 
Special Orders, No. /jj. 

The Artillery at the Parapet and Fort Banks will be placed under the 
immediate command of Lieut. -Col. Nelson Viall, who will be held respon- 
sible that it is kept in good working condition. The Third Battalion, nth 
U.S. Colored Artillery (Heavy), to be drilled on the guns, and will at 
once be relieved from the engineer's work on which they are now engaged. 
Lieut. -Col. Viall will detail a company of his command to man and take 
charge of the guns at Fort Banks, where it will take post the 3d day of July, 
1S64, for duty. 

The Quartermaster will furnish the necessary transportation. 

By order of 

Brig.-Gen. T. W. SHERMAN. 
W. D. Smith, 
Lt.-Col. & A. A. Geril. 

As has already been stated, when Lieutenant-Colonel Viall 
assumed command of the post the immediate command of the 
battalion devolved upon Capt. Samuel Farnum. Fatigue parties 
were immediately organized to work on the fortifications, and for 
the next two months the battalion furnished details for the swamp 
and slashing on the right. When the fleet under Farragut captured 
the city the enemy at Camp Parapet found themselves on the wrong 
side of their works. These lines had been originally laid out by the 
Confederates for the defence of New Orleans against an attack 
by land from the north ; as, for example, by a force approaching 
through Lake Pontchartrain 1 and Pass Manchac. A tax of two 

1 This lake was named after Count Louis Phelyppeaux Pontchartrain, a minister and 
chancellor of France. He was a man remarkable for his talents and erudition. When he 
was appointed to the office of Chancellor of France, Louis XlVth., on administering to 
him the oath, said, " Sir, I regret that it is not in my power to bestow upon you a higher 
office, as a proof of my esteem for your talents, and of my gratitude for your services." 




ASSISTANT SURGEON JOSEPH R. DRAPER 



/> 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 47 

millions of dollars had been levied upon the principal merchants 
of New Orleans for the defence of the city. The first installment 
was paid and expended upon the Parapet running from the Mis- 
sissippi River to the marshes of Lake Pontchar train. In 1862 
these works were put in order by the Union forces, and the 
Twenty-first Indiana Infantry, who had received some artil- 
lery instruction during their term of service at Fort McHenry, in 
Maryland, completed the foundation for their future service as 
heavy artillerists by going back to the big guns. 

On the 2d of May, 1864, Captain Farnum issued the following 
order : 

"Hereafter one company of this battalion will drill upon the 
heavy guns at the Parapet each day, commencing with Company 
I this day, next K, L, M. First drill will be from six until 
seven a. m. Second from nine until ten a. m. Third from four 
until five p. m., and each company is expected to drill the full 
hour upon the guns, and perfect themselves in the manual of the 
piece. Dress parade at one o'clock." 

On the 19th of May, 1864, Major Comstock, of the First Bat- 
talion, received orders to evacuate Fort Esperanza, Texas. 
Embarking his battalion on board the transport steamer Clinton, 
he reached New Orleans, May 23d. The next day he reported to 
Lieutenant-Colonel Viall, and the First and Third Battalions were 
consolidated, and Major Comstock relieved Captain Farnum as 
commanding officer of the battalion. 

On the 27th of May, 1S64, Major Comstock caused the follow- 
ing order to be published : 

Headquarters, Sth L t . S. II. A. (Col'd), 

Camp Parapet, May 27, 1S64. 
General Orders, No. 18. 

In accordance with orders from Lt. Col. Viall Comd'g Post Camp Para- 
pet, I hereby assume command of this Reg't. Second Lieut. Pardon Mason. 
Actg. Adjutant, will report to his company for duty. All orders issued by 
Capt. Farnum will be obeyed and respected until further orders. 

It is my desire to make this regiment the very best in the service, which 
can only be done by every officer and soldier attending to his duty in a 
prompt and soldierly manner. Let us show that colored troops can behave 
and do duty as well as white troops. Although we are now called the Sth 



48 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

U. S. H. A. let us not forget Rhode Island. We were enlisted in that 
State; she has done well by all her troops, and will do well by you. Let 
us as Rhode Island and United States soldiers uphold the good reputation 
we have already gained. 

J. J. COMSTOCK, 

Official : Major Comdg. 

Zeph Brown, 

isl Let. &• Actg. Adj't. 

By order of the Secretary of War, dated April 4, 1864, all regi- 
ments of African descent were designated as regiments of the 
United States. The Fourteenth Rhode Island bore no less than 
five separate and distinct official titles during its term of service : 

First — Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery at its incep- 
tion. 

Second — Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Corps 
d' Afrique. Technically this name never attached to the Third 
Battalion, but only to the First and Second. (March, 1864.) 

Third — Eighth United States Heavy Artillery (Colored). This 
name had already been assigned to the First and Second Battal- 
ions, and had been taken up on their books and returns when the 
Third Battalion reached Louisiana. For more than a month the 
anomaly was presented of the First and Third Battalions of really 
the same regiment camped side by side, but officially in daily 
practice known as and called the Eighth United States and Four- 
teenth Rhode Island respectively. (April and May, 1864.) 

Fourth — Eighth United States Colored Artillery (Heavy), 
announced about July 1, 1864. 

Fifth — Eleventh United States Colored Artillery (Heavy), 
announced Aug. 28, 1864, pursuant to General Orders 115, 
Department of the Gulf, Aug. 25, 1864, and this name it bore to 
the muster out, Oct. 2, 1865. 

At Camp Parapet Lieutenant-Colonel Viall with the aid of sym- 
pathetic friends, established a school for the men under his com- 
mand, which was placed in charge of Lieut. Martin S. Smith and 
Quartermaster-Sergt. George W. Hamblin, who had passed a suc- 
cessful examination before a military board sitting at Morganzia, 
for the position of second lieutenant. The men showed a great 
desire to learn, and zealously improved the opportunity. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 49 

By means of post funds a printing-press was obtained by the 
Third Battalion, and all the materials necessary to publish a 
small newspaper. This purchase was entrusted to Lieutenant- 
Colonel Viall, and by means of which a semi-monthly paper was 
issued at Fort Parapet. The editor was Quartermaster-Sergeant 
Hamblin, and below we give a fac simile of the heading of the 
first issue of the paper : 

She padt $P»m*r. 



Freedom to All. Death to Copperheads and Traitors. 
Vol. I. CAMP PARAPET, La., MAY 17, 1864. No. 1. 

Two of its leading editorials are as follows : 

" It is the aim of this paper to promote discipline and good 
order in the camps, to incite the soldier to that efficiency which 
is the result of a thorough knowledge of his duty ; to raise the 
status of colored troops by proving their capability of appreciat- 
ing, preserving, and defending the principles of Liberty either by 
pen or sword ; to sustain our government under whose banner we 
have enlisted by moral as well as physical force, and to war 
against Copperheads and Traitors." 

" The people of Louisiana have crowned themselves with honor 
in the revision of the State constitution so that slavery and invol- 
untary servitude shall forever be abolished, and the suffering 
thousands of this State be constitutionally free from the great 
tyrant." 

The following notices appeared in this issue : 

" Our newspaper type having given out we have been obliged 
to use an incongruous medley to fill our columns ; the public will 
therefore excuse its typographical appearance." 

" This paper is owned, printed, and edited by the black war- 
riors of the 14th R. I. H. A." 



50 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

On the 23d of July, 1864, Lieutenant-Colonel Viall issued the 

following order : 

Hd. Qrs. 8th U. S. C. Arty. (Hy.) 

Camp Parapet, La., July 23, 1864. 
(3D Batt. Hd. Qrs.) 
General Orders., No. 2S. 

I. Hereafter the Commanding Officers of Companies I, K, L, and M, 
will, upon the signal being sounded, move their commands to their respect- 
ive guns without further orders. 

II. The signals for the detachments to repair to their batteries will be 
three rapid taps on the bass drum, repeated with intervals of five seconds — 
three times. At the beating of it every man will equip himself in double- 
quick time, and companies will repair in quick time and good order to their 
guns. 

By command of 

Lt.-Col. NELSON VIALL, 

Comdg. Regt. 
J. Cary Whiting, Jr., 

1st Lt. & Adjutant. 

The Third Battalion remained here at Camp Parapet doing its 
appointed duty to the satisfaction of the highest authorities. It 
was a responsible post, implying ability and zeal in commanding 
officers and staunchness below. Although beyond our lines and 
towards the enemy were only outlying pickets and we were not 
likely to be attacked in force, it was still a position of responsi- 
bility and honor. 



CHAPTER VI 

The Second Battalion at Plaquemine — The Place Threatened 
by the Appearance of Guerrillas and Parties of Rebel 
Cavalry — The Red River Campaign — Attack on Plaquemine 
by a Body of Rebel Cavalry — Capture and Murder of Three 
Men of the Battalion — Captain Addeman's Graphic Account 
of the Skirmish — General Benton's Report. 

ON the 1 6th of April, 1864, a correspondent from the Second 
Battalion writing to the Providence Evening Press says : 
" Our battalion has been encamped at this place about three 
weeks. . . . We have been busily engaged since our arrival 
in completing a fort begun last fall by the Forty-second Ohio 
Regiment, which regiment we relieved. Considerable rainy 
weather has interfered with our labors, but on the whole the prog- 
ress of the work is considered quite satisfactory. As we are the 
only troops here at present, their numerous duties keep the men 
busily engaged. Apprehensions of an attack by guerrillas make 
it necessary for us to send out a strong force on the different 
roads approaching the town. On Thursday, the 14th instant, a 
party of rebel soldiers, numbering about twenty-five, came down 
to what is known as Indian Village, some eight or nine miles dis- 
tant, and burned about four hundred bales of cotton. This cotton 
had been 'run' through the country; that is, conveyed secretly 
by night through swamps and the little bayous, and concealed 
during the day for fear of its being discovered by the Confederate 
scouting parties. This Indian Village is a general rendezvous 
for cotton brought down in this manner, where the speculators 
take it from the owners and transport it to this place. So much 
cotton was by this means sent out of the Confederacy that it was 
determined to put a stop to it ; and, as stated before, these rebel 
soldiers were sent down under charge of an officer belonging in 
this vicinity, with instructions to burn the cotton, but to leave 
untouched the sugar and molasses, of which there was a large 



52 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

quantity in store. They ripped open and set fire to about four 
hundred bales, but the poor people, after their departure, extin- 
guished the flames and saved a portion of it. 

" We have received vague accounts of the recent severe engage- 
ment on the Red River, but thus far the issue seems very doubt- 
ful. We saw some results of the battle in two boats loaded with 
wounded soldiers which passed down the river yesterday, and in 
a boat-load of rebel prisoners clearly conspicuous in their 'butter- 
nut ' clothing, who went down this morning. Should the tide of 
battle turn against us, as has been reported, it would place in 
some danger the positions now occupied by us on the river, inas- 
much as their garrisons have been reduced to the smallest possi- 
ble number in order to strengthen the army under General Banks. 
The bold front assumed by the rebels at numerous places indicates 
the confidence they feel in their success. 

" Rumors having prevailed that the rebels were intending to 
take advantage of our present weak state to make an attack, a 
loud report, apparently caused by the discharge of a field-piece, a 
mile or two distant, alarmed the camp this afternoon, whereupon 
the 'long roll' was beat and the battalion immediately formed in 
line. But it was found soon after the alarm was given that the 
report was caused by the explosion of a fifteen-inch shell thrown 
some time since into the woods by one of our gunboats. One of 
the citizens found this, and, wanting powder very much for hunt- 
ing purposes, as well as actuated by curiosity, probably to see 
the construction of the shell, he attempted to take out the fuse, 
but in so doing he exploded the shell. The flying pieces instantly 
killed him, together with a woman and negro boy who were look- 
ing on, horribly mutilating the bodies and cutting off at the same 
time large limbs from the surrounding trees. The mangled 
remains were gathered up and placed in coffins for interment." 

A correspondent of the Providence Journal of the 12 th of April, 
1864, says : 

"The Second Battalion continues in the same quarters as when 
we first arrived, and, making due allowance for a liberal share of 
stormy weather, appears quite well satisfied with its present sta- 
tion. Being separated from all other troops and surrounded by 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 53 

a hostile people, we are obliged to depend upon ourselves not 
only for all means of defence, but for all sources of recreation or 
improvement. But it is said to the credit of our men, they not 
only comprehend and are fully alive to the importance of a proper 
discharge of their duties, but in sunshine as well as in storm they 
preserve the same joyous spirits and happy good nature. Ebulli- 
tions of temper will sometimes occur, but they exist only for the 
moment. Fractious and turbulent spirits will sometimes seek to 
cause trouble in camp, but a strict discipline speedily brings 
them to terms. 

" The large details required for picket and fatigue on the 
fort leave little opportunity for drills ; but the cheerfulness with 
which they engage in these new and tedious duties, and the gen- 
erous emulation existing as to which company shall do the most 
work are highly commendable. It would not require much 
observation, if fairly conducted, of the manner in which these 
men discharge their duties, to convince a reasonable person that 
the experiment of employing the colored man as a soldier is a suc- 
cess. It is very easy to observe a marked change in sentiment 
towards the men and their officers on the part of the citizens of 
this place. Our predecessors had license to roam over the town 
at will, and many and grievous were the complaints against their 
abuse of this privilege. The strict discipline thus far maintained 
over our men has corrected the evils of which former regiments 
have been the cause, and very few, if any, complaints have been 
made against them. But few are allowed out of camp at a time, 
and they must be perfectly unexceptionable in personal appear- 
ance. It must have been a very agreeable disappointment for the 
citizens to find that the evil of which, by our coming here, they 
feared only an exaggeration, has on the contrary materially 
diminished. 

" The staple products of the country are in the greatest 
demand, and many are the speculators flocking hither to seek an 
opportunity to trade with the planters. But the provisions regu- 
lating this traffic are quite strict, and a large number of these 
gentlemen afflicted with what is here known as ' cotton on the 
brain ' have to retire without any palliative for their insatiable 



54 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

disease. It would be difficult for one who has not visited this 
portion of our country to form an adequate conception of its sur- 
prising fertility. Many of the planters live in princely style, and 
instinctively attract respect, not only by the vast extent of their 
possessions, but by the high-toned character and hospitable spirit 
which they are justly reputed to possess. Others, however, are 
as grasping and sordid as the meanest of the Yankees to whom 
they love to attribute these qualities. One of our neighbors, 
reputed to be worth between four and five millions of dollars, has 
for some time been justly suspected, notwithstanding he has 
already more property than he knows how to use, of an illicit 
traffic with the enemy. He has a landing on his estate, from 
which it is said he sends goods by some secret means to the 
' rebs,' receiving in return cotton and sugar, and he is said to 
have made during the war by this operation, a very handsome 
thing. He is encouraged in the belief that no one knows his 
duplicity, but he will yet be brought up with a short turn. 

" We have not lately heard much of the guerrillas on our side 
of the river, but a short distance back of the opposite bank it is 
said that a perfect reign of terror has for some time prevailed. 
These ' jayhawkers,' who receive no more sympathy from the 
Confederates than from us, plunder from friends and foes alike. 
A citizen made his way across a few days since and reported that 
the chief of the band, a man by the name of Miller, had died 
lately, and it was thought that some of their depredations might 
cease. He said he had not for a long time dared to stay in his 
own house during the night, but was obliged to conceal himself in 
the woods. They have rendered it unsafe for any travelers to 
venture far back from the river, and have even inspired our 
cavalry with fear of them. They once beat them in a fight, and 
as they take to the woods on any alarm, where cavalry cannot be 
used, they are safe, for the men being unacquainted with their 
defences dislike to follow them. It is sincerely to be hoped that 
such an incubus on the efforts of a growing people may speedily 
be removed. 

"A paper is published weekly in this place, called The Plaque- 
mine Sentinel and Gazette. It is not only weekly, but rather 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 55 

weakly, although its consequential publisher seems fondly to 
regard it as the hub of the newspaper world. We were not a little 
amused on looking over its back files to read the flaming articles 
in favor of secession, and in denunciation of their ' brutal tyrants,' 
written to pander to the taste of a people which needed little 
stimulus, for it is evident not only from the columns of this sheet, 
but the testimony of citizens, that the spirit for war was almost 
universal. The people ran almost wild with enthusiasm, and vol- 
unteers were obtained much more rapidly than they could be 
equipped. Plaquemine furnished several companies. The post 
headquarters is a very pleasant house, belonging to a captain in 
the rebel service. When the volunteers were starting for the war, 
magnificent banquets were given them, the ladies cheered them 
on with their most bewitching smiles, buncombe orators gave 
full vent to their pent-up eloquence, and all parties, volunteers as 
well as civilians, believed that the soldiers could not be otherwise 
than invincible. But at Vicksburg and Port Hudson, to say noth- 
ing of innumerable other engagements in the Mississippi Valley, 
they have found out their mistake ; and one of them, a paroled 
prisoner, was constrained to say to a friend who asked his opinion 
of the Yankee soldiers, that they were 'the bravest men in the 
world.' 

" The rebels are not wholly exterminated from this part of the 
State, and are said to be menacing different points on the river 
from Baton Rouge to Port Hudson. The reports of skirmishes 
lately between our cavalry and scouting parties of the enemy, and 
of the attacks on the pickets near Port Hudson, you have prob- 
ably received ere this." 

The want of cavalry for scouting purposes was greatly felt in 
the vicinity of Plaquemine, as the following letter from Major 
Shaw to Capt. George W. Durgin, Jr., acting assistant adjutant- 
general of the Defences of New Orleans, will show : 

" I have the honor to report that a party of guerrillas have 
made their appearance in this neighborhood, of whose number I 
am at present unable to judge. They are reported in the vicinity 
of Indian Village, burning cotton, etc. The want of a sufficient 
cavalry force is seriously felt here, and I would respectfully sug- 



56 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

gest that a company of cavalry would be of great service in this 
place." 

Four days later he writes : " I have the honor to call your 
attention to the great necessity which exists for a company, at 
least, of cavalry, in this place. The provost marshal needs a 
mounted patrol to assist him in his business, and I have informa- 
tion that with a sufficient cavalry force quite a number of impor- 
tant seizures might be made. There are also several parties of 
Confederates in the vicinity, one near Indian Village of about 
thirty men, under command of Lieutenant Hack. With a com- 
pany of cavalry there these parties might be either driven off or 
captured." 

Again on the 28th of May Major Shaw says : 

"I have information from various sources that the enemy intend 
making an attack on this place. Much of the information I have 
received I do not consider reliable, and probably you are better 
informed than I am of the force of the enemy in our rear. I am 
told that the Second and Fourth Louisiana Cavalry have crossed 
the Bayou Pigeon. Many of the inhabitants of the town are anx- 
ious to leave, and it is the general impression that there will be 
an attack upon the place. I have, as you will see by my tri- 
monthly report, about four hundred and fifty effective men. 

"The fort is not yet completed, but is progressing as rapidly as 
possible, and I have made requisitions on the planters and citi- 
zens for men and teams for the purpose of hurrying up the work. 
I have eight guns mounted, seven 3 2 -pounders en barbette, and 
one 30-pounder Parrott siege-gun on the levee side. However, 
we are very much exposed, as the levee itself will afford protec- 
tion for the enemy. Until this work is complete a few flanking 
guns would be indispensable in case of an attack in force. I have 
the honor to request, if in your opinion it is advisable, that you 
will send me a section of light artillery for a few weeks." 

To give an idea of the situation of affairs here in the spring of 
1864, we again quote from Captain Addeman's account : 

" In April parties of guerillas and rebel cavalry began to ope- 
rate actively in our neighborhood. At Indian Village, a few 
miles distant, they burned a large quantity of cotton which had 




LIEUT JOSEPH CARY WHITING, |R 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 57 

been sent in by planters or collected by speculators and was 
awaiting transportation. About the same time mysterious signals 
attracted our attention, and soon afterwards we learned that a 
body of two hundred cavalry had crossed the Grand River for the 
purpose of attacking us. The men slept on their arms, but no 
attack was made. A week or two afterwards I had occasion to 
visit New Orleans on business, and while there heard a report 
that Plaquemine was ' gobbled up ' by the rebs. I was very 
much relieved on my return to find everything in statu quo. A 
raid shortly afterwards on Bayou Goula, a trading station a few 
miles below us, resulted in the destruction of considerable prop- 
erty, but no captures or prisoners. 

" On the twenty-fifth of May the gunboat 54 was sent to cruise 
on the river in our neighborhood, and it was a welcome reinforce- 
ment to our meagre numbers." 

Perhaps a brief notice of what was known as the " Red River 
Campaign " may be of interest to our readers, as it bore an im- 
portant part in the affairs of our department. The object of the 
expedition was to open up northwestern Louisiana. General 
Banks's forces moved from New Orleans about the first of March 
to Brashear City, and thence by a route along the Bayou Teche 
and Opelousas to Alexandria. At the same time the fleet under 
Rear Admiral Porter was collected at the mouth of the Red 
River, and soon after Gen. A. J. Smith's corps from Gen. W. 
T. Sherman's command left Vicksburg to join the expedition. 
These military and naval forces were to move in co-operation 
towards Shreveport, the rebel capital of Louisiana, where the 
principal rebel army under Gen. Dick Taylor was concentrated. 
Fort De Russey was taken by the Federal forces ; Alexandria was 
occupied on the 26th of March. General Banks then pushed 
forward to Grand Ecore. On the afternoon of April 7th he 
advanced and met the enemy near Pleasant Hill, and drove him 
from the field. On the same afternoon the enemy made a stand 
eight miles beyond Pleasant Hill, but was again compelled to 
retreat. On the 8th, at Sabine Cross Roads and Peach Hill, the 
enemy attacked and defeated his advance, capturing nineteen 
pieces of artillery and an immense amount of transportation and 



58 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

stores. During the night General Banks fell back to Pleasant 
Hill, where another battle was fought on the 9th, and the enemy 
repulsed with great loss. General Banks continued his retro- 
grade movement to Grand Ecore, and thence to Alexandria, 
which he reached on the 27th of April. Here a serious difficulty 
arose in getting Admiral Porter's fleet which accompanied the ex- 
pedition, over the rapids, the water having fallen so much since 
they passed up as to prevent their return. At the suggestion of 
Col. Joseph Bailey, acting engineer of the Nineteenth Army Corps, 
and under his superintendence, wing dams were constructed by 
which the channel was contracted so that the fleet passed down 
the rapids in safety. 

The army evacuated Alexandria on the 14th of May, after con- 
siderable skirmishing with the enemy's advance, and reached 
Morganzia and Point Coupee near the end of the month. The 
Red River Expedition was thus a failure. General Grant says : 
" It is but just to Banks, however, to say that his expedition was 
ordered from Washington, and he was in no way responsible, 
except for the conduct of it. He opposed the expedition." 

On the 28th of May, two brigades of cavalry from Banks's 
army, under command of Maj.-Gen. Richard Arnold (a Rhode 
Islander and a distinguished officer in the regular army), began 
crossing Bayou Plaquemine, making an unusual stir in our quiet 
town. The Third Rhode Island Cavalry was among the number. 
We here met several of the officers of that regiment, and assisted 
in entertaining them ; also some of the officers of (Nims) Massa- 
chusetts battery. Their uniforms betokened hard usage on long 
and tedious marches, and their raiment generally looked as if it 
had " seen better days." The men all seemed exceedingly rusty, 
the horses jaded, and the baggage trains "played." They all 
agreed that they had had a rough time. They informed us that 
it would not be strange if we had a brush with the " rebs," who 
were following them. 

Captain Addeman says : 

"Orders came within a day or two from Baton Rouge, announc- 
ing a change of commanders of the district and exhorting us to 
get everything into fighting trim. It will be remembered that, 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 59 

flushed with victory the rebels followed close on the heels of our 
retreating army, and were only stopped by the lack of transporta- 
tion to cross the swift and deep Atchafalaya. Of course, we pre- 
sumed they would make one of their raids down the coast and 
attack our post, and that of Donaldsonville, some twenty-five 
miles below us, which constituted the principal defences on the 
river above New Orleans. With the exception, however, of cap- 
turing some of our cavalry pickets, we had no trouble, though 
frequent alarms kept us on the qui viveT 

Several officers of the battalion desirous of improving the 
evenings off duty by engaging in literary pursuits, formed a 
society called "The Officers' Literary Union." A number of 
papers were read and discussed before the society, which awak- 
ened a great deal of interest and served to make the time pass 
pleasantly as well as profitably for all. Among the subjects for 
debate we will mention a few only : " Should the present rebel- 
lious states when subjugated be reduced to territories ? " "Which 
secures a readier obedience, hope of reward, or pain of punish- 
ment ? " "Are vigilance committees and lynch law trials ever 
justifiable ?"' 

In June a member of the battalion in writing home says : 

" This town is about the size of Pawtuxet, and contains about 
six hundred inhabitants. They are generally the friends of the 
Confederacy, and would much rather have our room than our 
company. We are building a fort in this vicinity, and have 
already mounted eight guns. About one hundred and fifty contra- 
bands have been impressed from the plantations in the neighbor- 
hood, who are doing the work on the fort. The weather is very 
warm, so much so as to be uncomfortable. We have had a num- 
ber of scares since we have been here, but as yet no attack has 
been made by the enemy. The only enemy in our immediate 
vicinity is numberless swarms of mosquitoes, who make the night 
hideous with their unearthly noises, and whose attacks are any- 
thing but pleasant or agreeable. 

"The health of the battalion is good, and the discipline excel- 
lent. The men are courteous, obedient, and kind. They enter- 
tain a high regard for their officers, and consequently readily 
obey their commands. 



60 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

" We have acquired considerable proficiency in drill, and bid 
fair to become second to no battalion in the service. The 
battalion has the use of the Methodist Church in this town, and 
holds Divine service every Sabbath. We also have a Sabbath 
school of over three hundred scholars, which promises good 
results for the cause of Christ. The morale of the battalion is 
good, though we are sadly in want of religious reading. The 
Christian Commission has kindly supplied our wants twice, but 
we have had no reading matter for some time. We do not lack 
for music and dancing, for there are plenty of amateurs who 
perform more of this kind of labor than is necessary, either for 
the moral or physical health of the battalion. We are anticipat- 
ing pleasant times the coming summer." 

On the 25th of May, 1864, a General Court-Martial was con- 
vened at Plaquemine, for the trial of such prisoners as might be 
brought before it. Capt. George W. Cole, president ; Capt. 
Joshua M. Addeman, judge advocate ; First Lieutenants William 
H. Chenery and Charles S. Brooks, and Second Lieutenants 
Lester S. Hill and George L. Gaskell composed the court. 

It should be stated in this connection that our officers were 
largely detailed for staff, court-martial, and other duties. The 
frequent attempts at smuggling contraband goods through our 
lines also necessitated military commissions for the trial of these 
as well as various other civil offences, — on which duty many of 
the officers were always engaged. Some were also detached from 
the battalion as provost marshals to aid in settling the disputes 
arising among the civilians and the troops. As a consequence 
we were always short-handed, and tours of duty came as often as 
was agreeable. 

The morning of the 4th of July, 1864, was ushered in by the 
ringing of bells and the firing of cannon. The battalion made a 
street parade in honor of the day. 

On the 2d of August, 1864, Major Shaw in a communication to 
Col. W. O. Fiske, commanding the post at Donaldsonville, reports 
that the rumor is very current among the citizens that the (rebel) 
force that crossed the Atchafalaya about a week ago, had re- 
crossed and were retiring. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 6l 

Captain Addeman graphically describes the events which fol- 
lowed : 

" In the midst of these rumors of attack, in the early morning 
of August 6th, we were visited by a body of mounted men. They 
dashed upon our pickets who made a bold stand for a short time, 
and then scattered for shelter. The rebels had caught sight of 
the officer, Lieutenant Aldrich, who was in command, and while 
a part of them made diligent search for him, the remainder 
dashed into the town, and, breaking up into parties, raided 
through the various streets, firing somewhat indiscriminately, but 
more particularly at what contrabands they saw. The companies 
gathered in their respective bastions in the fort, and we expected 
a lively brush. As the rebels did not appear to be coming to us, 
a strong detachment under command of Adjutant Barney, was 
sent out to exchange compliments with them. They gave us no 
opportunity for this, but soon retired, taking with them three of 
our pickets and one cavalry vidette, whom they had captured. We 
understood, the next day, that our men were shot in cold blood. 
Lieutenant Aldrich, and the men with him, escaped through the 
friendly protection of an osage orange grove. Others swam the 
bayou, and thus escaped certain death if captured. I think our 
casualties were, besides those taken prisoners, one man killed 
and a few wounded. Several of the rebels were said to be killed 
or wounded. One of the latter, as I remember, fell into our 
hands and was taken into our hospital where he received the 
same treatment as our own men. Subsequently we learned that 
the raiders were Texans, who boastfully declared that they asked 
no quarter and gave none." 

The names of the brave soldiers of this battalion who were 
thus foully murdered were : Samuel O. Jefferson, Anthony King, 
and Samuel Mason, all of Company G. They fell not in battle, 
yet their names are as worthy to be recorded on the martyr roll 
of heroes as those who charged at Fort Wagner, or at the Battle 
of the Mine at Petersburg. 

The following official report of this affair was forwarded by 
Brig.-Gen. W. P. Benton, commanding District of Baton Rouge, 
to Gen. T. W. Sherman, Commanding Defences of New Orleans : 



62 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

Baton Rouge, Aug. 6, 1S64. 

The commanding officer at Plaquemine [Maj. Richard G. Shaw] reports 
that his pickets were attacked this morning by about one hundred mounted 
infantry. They drove in the pickets at first, and about fifty of them got 
into town . The pickets were re-enforced and drove them from street to 
street out of town. They then retreated toward the village, carrying their 
wounded in a wagon. Our loss is three killed and wounded, and four 
taken prisoners ; their loss is supposed to be about the same. For the 
want of cavalry he was unable to pursue them. I would most respectfully 
request that a battalion of the Fourth Wisconsin (Mounted Infantry), 
Major Craigue commanding, now stationed at Morganza, be ordered to re- 
port to me so as to enable me to re-enforce this post with sufficient cavalry. 
I desire this command more particularly for the reason that Major Craigue 
is acquainted with every road and by-path in the district. 

W. P. BENTON, 
Brigadier- General Com manding. 

Capt. O. Matthews, 
Assistant Adjutant-General. 

On the 8th of August, 1864, Major Shaw says in a communi- 
cation to General Benton, commanding the District of Baton 
Rouge : 

" Nothing new this morning. The prisoners taken from our 
pickets the other day were shot by their captors after crossing 
the bayou at Indian Village. They belonged to Company G, 
Eighth United States Colored Artillery." 

On the nth of August, 1864, Col. W. O. Fiske, commanding 
the Post at Donaldsonville, says : 

" For the last two days the guerillas have troubled the couriers 
from here to Plaquemine very much. Major Shaw reports one 
of his couriers was captured yesterday ; that his cavalry is so 
small that he will be unable to meet my courier any longer at 
Bayou Goula. The courier I sent Thursday was chased several 
miles by guerillas and barely escaped. I cannot keep up the 
communication with Plaquemine without Major Shaw has orders 
to continue them." 



CHAPTER VII 

The First Battalion Ordered to Fort Jackson — Description 
of the Country Adjacent to the Fort — Its Unhealthy 
Locality — Sickness and Death in the Battalion — Extract 
from "Whip, Hoe and Sword" — Death of Captain Henry 
Simon — Captain Fry's Letter — A Military Execution. 

ON the 3d of July, 1864, Gen. Thomas W. Sherman ordered the 
First Battalion, then stationed at Camp Parapet, to Fort 
Jackson, below New Orleans, to do garrison duty, and the two 
battalions (the First and Third) remained thus divided until 
the several battalions assembled at Camp Parapet in September, 
1865, and were mustered out of service. Fort Jackson is on 
the west bank of the Mississippi River, and the construction of 
the fort commenced in 1814. Fort St. Philip is on the east bank, 
a short distance above Fort Jackson, and sixty-five miles below 
New Orleans. It was established by the Spaniards about the 
middle of the eighteenth century. Among the duties appertaining 
to the garrison were those of boarding all inward bound vessels and 
examining the papers of the captains. This duty necessitated the 
keeping of a boat's crew constantly on the lookout, and made it less 
monotonous for the garrison, as every steamer and sailing craft was 
signaled to heave to by firing a blank cartridge from the water- 
batteries. On several occasions captains of steamers endeavored 
to pass the fort and ignore the signal. A solid shot across the 
bow of the vessel would prove efficacious, and steam would be 
shut off at once, thus permitting the boarding officer to approach. 
The country round about Forts Jackson and St. Philip is low and 
marshy, and very unhealthy. At the time of the passage of these 
forts by Admiral Farragut, the Confederate forces stationed there 
were under the command of Brigadier-General Duncan. 

Gen. Benjamin F. Butler in his Book says : "The enemy had 
made no preparations to resist an attack from the rear of Fort 
St. Philip, supposing the swamps impassable. Lieut, (afterwards 
Gen.) Godfrey Weitzel, while constructing the fort (previous to 



64 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

the war) had been for two years in the habit of duck-shooting all 
over these swamps, and knew every bay and bayou of them. On 
the 27th of April the majority of the rebel garrison at Fort Jack- 
son mutinied against their officers, either spiked the field-pieces 
or turned them against their officers, and deserted and came up 
five miles and surrendered themselves to my pickets." Butler 
also says that in order to cut off the rebel garrison at Fort St. 
Philip his soldiers waded up to their arm-pits in water in the 
swamps in the rear of the fort. 

From this account our readers may judge of the nature of the 
soil around Forts Jackson and St. Philip, and their unhealthy 
environments. The position was one of great importance, but 
situated in the midst of low, marshy surroundings, the intense 
heat of the sun and a malarious atmosphere told severely upon 
the officers and men of the First Battalion. Nearly one hundred 
men of the battalion died at this place. 

We may be pardoned if in this connection we allude to the cli- 
mate of Lower Louisiana. George H. Hepworth in Whip, Hoe, 
and Sword says : 

" Here the remembrance of my sufferings from the climate of 
the lower part of the State comes up so vividly that I must be 
allowed to make a digression in order to describe it. Of all 
things horrible, this is certainly the most. To say it is unhealthy 
is to be very complimentary. The soil of the country is made up 
of vegetable matter, which is yet in the process of decomposition. 
Dig down three feet, and you come to water. In twenty-four 
hours, that water exhales a most nauseous odor, which no one can 
take into his lungs with impunity. If you sleep out of doors, no 
matter what precautions you may take, you will be sure to suc- 
cumb to an attack of chills, which will rack your system, and 
make you hollow-eyed and hollow-cheeked in a few days. If you 
get sick with fever, the chances are that you will not get well. 
Physicians tell me that medicines fail here which have never been 
known to fail at the North. There is nothing vitalizing in the air. 
A man comes to this country with his vital mercury at eighty. 
In a little while he catches a cold, and the mercury sinks to sixty. 
Slowly, slowly, it moves upward ; but it always stops somewhere 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 65 

among the seventies. It will not get up to the full eighty again ; 
and every time he is ill the less chance there is of his getting 
well. There is no place on the river, south of Baton Rouge, 
where one can live the exposed life of the soldier with impunity. 
The most rugged systems yield by degrees to the fatal miasma 
with which the night air is laden ; and boys, who in Maine, two 
years ago, cut, split, and piled their two cords of wood a day, go 
regularly at surgeon's call to get their five grains of quinine. 

" Indeed, none of the lower part of the State has yet reached 
that geological age in which the soil is fit for the residence of 
man. Had it been let alone for a couple of centuries, the many 
thousand tons of sediment which the river daily brings from the 
North, and which it is now compelled to deposit at the passes, 
every year thrusting the land out into the sea some two hundred 
feet, — would have been spread by the kindly hand of Nature 
over the whole area of Lower Louisiana, and the State would by 
this time have attained an average elevation of six feet above its 
present mosquito and alligator level. 

" To a stranger, this language may seem extravagant ; but, to 
one who has lived in these parts, it is exceedingly moderate. 
Take a stroll some fine day from the planter's house, along the 
road leading to the woods. The air is filled with a universal hum. 
It is the singing of the mosquitoes, that come in dense clouds, 
and sometimes in such countless numbers that even the mules, 
though covered from ears to tail with bagging, refuse to work, 
and the horses are literally sprinkled with blood. But be careful 
how you walk ; for there lies across your path that prototype of 
some Northern politicians, the copperhead ! And be careful 
again ; for I hear the warning rattle of the only chivalrous snake 
in the woods ! And, now that you have reached the sluggish 
bayou, you notice at a glance a dozen square-built, roof-like heads 
moving slowly on the surface of the water. These uncouth, un- 
gainly creatures, that disport themselves regardless of your pres- 
ence, seem to be the representatives of a distant geological 
period. 

" The overhanging woods, the tall, broad live-oak, and the for- 
lorn looking, spire-like cypress, are covered with aerial moss, which 
s 



66 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

clings to all the branches, and hangs gracefully down for six or 
eight feet. As you look at the picture, remembering the nature 
of the soil under your feet, and looking round on the tall, rank 
grass covering the prairie, you are surprised at your own presence 
in such a scene. It belongs, not to the present, but to the dis- 
tant past. 

" It must not be forgotten that I am now speaking of Lower 
Louisiana. The scenery from Baton Rouge northward is very 
fine. The ground is undulating, the air is pure, the reptiles and 
vermin are less numerous, and the country is more healthy ; but 
our soldiers have been stationed on the lower coasts of the river, 
and have contracted all manner of diseases from the fatal cli- 
mate." 

Capt. Thomas W. Fry, of Company A, in a letter dated from 
Fort Jackson, Sept. 21, 1864, says: 

"It is very sickly here. Since coming to this post in July, I 
have lost twenty-three men by death. I have lost twenty-eight in 
all. None of the officers have died as yet, but all have been sick 
with the fever ; three of them are at present in the hospital at 
New Orleans. I have not been sick enough to be off duty, hav- 
ing been in this climate two years before. We expect the pay- 
master here to-day to pay off the battalion. I am very glad the 
amount of pay is settled, as it has been a serious drawback to the 
regiment, and has at times caused insubordination that has 
required very severe measures to check. During my temporary 
absence as brigade inspector my own company refused to answer 
their names when I inspected them, thinking that I had left the 
company, and was trying to make them take seven dollars per 
month. The consequence was, fourteen of them I preferred 
charges against and sent to the Tortugas ; but after all I know of 
no white regiment that would have remained in the service thir- 
teen months as my company has, without any pay, that would 
have given us less trouble." 

Here at Fort Jackson, Capt. Henry Simon, as brave and true a 
soldier as ever drew a sword, contracted the fever, which in a 
few days terminated fatally. Here his eldest son, a youth of 
fifteen years, to whom he was devotedly attached, sickened of 




LIEUT. JOHN B. I'EIRCE 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 6j 

malignant typhus fever and died September 6th. The loss of 
rest in constantly taking care of him, and the mental depression 
caused by the bereavement, together with anxious thought for his 
family which occupied his mind to the latest hour, probably 
hastened the fatal termination of disease that under brighter 
skies might have been averted. Soon after the decease of his 
son Captain Simon was seized with the same malignant disorder. 
He was removed to St. James Hospital in New Orleans, where, 
Oct. 6, 1864, at the age of fifty-two years, he yielded up his mor- 
tal life. 

On the 27th of July, 1864, occurred one of the most tragic 
scenes in the history of the First Battalion. Private James 
Quinn of Company A, in an altercation with Private Charles 
Cisco of the same company, shot him in the neck, causing almost 
instant death. A court-martial was convened at Fort Jackson, of 
which Major Comstock was president, and Quinn was arrested 
and tried on the charge of murder. He was convicted and sen- 
tenced " to be shot to death by musketry, at such time and place 
as the Commanding General may designate." 

The place selected for the execution of this miserable wretch 
was Camp Parapet, La., and occurred Nov. 25, 1864. An officer 
of the Third Battalion, who was an eye witness of the affair, says : 

" One who has never seen a military execution can form no 
conception of its gruesome details. The various troops of the dis- 
trict were present, under the command of Col. N. B. Bartram, 
district commander. The culprit seemed to be utterly indifferent 
to his fate, and appeared as cool and unconcerned as though 
going on parade. A firing party was detailed for the purpose, 
and their muskets loaded with ball cartridge, with the exception 
of one which was loaded with a blank. This was done so that 
each soldier might have the benefit of the doubt as to whether he 
fired one of the fatal shots or not. The muskets were stacked 
and drawn indiscriminately, so that no one could tell who drew 
the blank. The place of execution was on the parade ground, 
where a stout post, with a board at a convenient height for a seat 
attached to it, was set firmly in the ground. The troops were 
paraded and formed in open ranks, facing inwards. Everything 



68 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

being in readiness the procession started from the guard-house 
and moved through the ranks in the following order : First came 
the band, playing the ' Dead March.' Behind them followed the 
guard, and immediately behind them a detail of four men carried 
a box which was to contain the remains of the condemned man. 
Then followed the culprit himself, accompanied by his spiritual 
adviser and his guards. Bringing up the rear was the firing 
party. The whole was under the command of the provost mar- 
shal. Of all the assemblage gathered, the condemned man was 
apparently the most indifferent. As the column moved slowly 
through the ranks he looked from one side to the other, smiling 
and nodding to his comrades. After passing through the ranks 
he was conducted to the post previously alluded to, seated upon 
the board, and his hands securely pinioned around and behind 
the post. The box was placed behind the post, with the head 
against it. 

" The provost marshal then read the findings of the court- 
martial, and the sentence with its approval by the commanding 
officer of the department. A prayer was then offered. During 
these proceedings the condemned man seemed totally uncon- 
cerned, looking around and viewing the scene with apparent curi- 
osity. After the prayer his eyes were bandaged, and the firing 
party having taken position about ten paces in front of the post, 
the signal for firing was given by the dropping of a handkerchief 
by the provost marshal. Eight men of the firing detail then dis- 
charged their muskets, four being held in reserve in case the first 
discharge should not prove effective. If the fire of the reserve 
should fail, it would then become the duty of the provost marshal 
to complete the execution with his revolver. In this instance the 
first fire took effect. A spasmodic movement of the body was all 
that could be observed, the man's head fell forward, and his soul 
had gone to meet his Maker. 

" Immediately after the man was pronounced dead by the sur- 
geon the reserve discharged their muskets in the air, so that no 
one could investigate and ascertain who possessed the blank car- 
tridge. The troops were then marched to quarters, and the body 
of the condemned man was placed in the box and buried just out- 
side the breastworks." 



CHAPTER VIII 

Lieut. -Col. Warren D. Smith, Inspector-General of the Defences 
of New Orleans Inspects the Second Battalion at Plaque- 
mine — Commendatory Letter of Maj.-Gen. N. P. Banks, 
Commanding Department of the Gulf — Gen. Thomas W. 
Sherman Visits the Battalion — Captain Addeman's Descrip- 
tion of Guard and Picket Duty at Plaquemine — Ami sk- 
ments in the Battalion — Baton Rouge — Description of 
the Place. 

IN August, 1864, the Second Battalion was visited at Plaque- 
mine by Lieut.-Col. Warren D. Smith, Inspector-General of the 
Defences of New Orleans, who reported to General Banks as fol- 
lows : " I landed in camp about noon, and no one knew of my 
coming. The call was sounded, and notice sent to turn out for 
inspection. In five minutes lines were formed in their streets. 
I found every man fit for duty (not on guard or picket) at in- 
spection, also all of the officers. The arms and equipments were 
all in the very best of order. From this they marched up to the 
guns in double-quick time, and each man knew his place," 

August 1 6th, General Banks addressed a complimentary letter 
to Major Shaw, commending the officers and men of his com- 
mand for the good preservation of their arms, their excellent dis- 
cipline and prompt execution of orders. 

The battalion was subsequently inspected by Gen. William P. 
Benton, commanding the district of Baton Rouge and Port Hud- 
son, La., and he expressed his great surprise and gratification at 
the promptness of the men in falling into line, the excellent con- 
dition in which he found them, and the readiness with which they 
executed the movements in battalion drill. 

Among the different officers who inspected the battalion, we 
will mention one who at this time was in command of the De- 
fences of New Orleans.' We refer to Brig.-Gen. Thomas W. 



1 The Defences of New Orleans were commanded by Gen. Thomas W. Sherman, and 
comprised the following districts : District of Carrolton, La., commanded by Lieut.-Col. 
Nelson Viall ; District of La Fourche, La., commanded by Brig. -Gen. Robert A. Cam- 
eron; District of Baton Rouge, La., Brig. -Gen. William P. Benton; Forts Jackson and 
Philip, commanded by Col. Charles A. Hartwell. 



JO FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Sherman (a native of Rhode Island). He had lost a leg at the 
charge on Port Hudson, in July, 1863. Woe to the luckless indi- 
vidual who incurred his displeasure. The writer recalls a visit 
made by the general to Plaquemine, where an inspection of the 
troops at the post occurred. A lieutenant of the battalion was 
in temporary command of his company on that day. He had 
signed the report book of the company that morning, but when 
required to account for several men who were temporarily 
detached he could not at the moment readily answer the gen- 
eral's interrogatories. The general ordered the lieutenant to 
go on board his headquarters boat, which was moored at the 
landing, and directed that he should remain there until he had 
accounted for every man in his company. After puzzling his 
brains over the several details made from the company he finally 
succeeded in locating most of his men, and was subsequently 
permitted to return to camp, a wiser and a happier man than 
when he went on board the general's boat. 

One of our officers writes at this time : " General Sherman, 
commanding the Defences of New Orleans, inspected us to-day, 
and no fool of an inspection either. All the troops at the post 
were in line, passing in review twice, the last time at double-quick. 
The sun was hot and the ground muddy. Had a battalion drill 
likewise. In the evening we reported to the general on board his 
boat with company books. I received a blowing up for not 
having recent changes on morning reports recorded. The next 
morning General Sherman continued his inspection, putting us 
through on artillery. We had target practice in the bastions of 
the fort. The general, accompanied by Major Shaw, went around 
the picket lines as far as he could get in a carriage. He thought 
that the pickets should be extended out a mile further. This 
would ensure their capture (in the opinion of the officers of the 
battalion). The general started this afternoon for Donaldson- 
ville." 

To give an idea of the peculiarities of the general we quote 
from Lieutenant-Colonel Viall's paper read before the Soldiers' 
and Sailors' Historical Society of Rhode Island : 

"At this time (1864), Gen. Thomas W. Sherman commanded 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 7 1 

the Defences of New Orleans. He was an old school dis- 
ciplinarian, exacting that all orders should be obeyed to the 
letter. The general having lost a leg at Port Hudson, it pro- 
duced a shock to his nervous system, and caused him at times to 
be somewhat irritable. On such occasions his language was in- 
clined to be more forcible than polite. Having business to 
transact at headquarters one day, I stepped into the office of one 
of his staff, the door of which had a sash and curtain. While in 
waiting some one opened the door and threw in a religious tract 
entitled ' Thou Shalt Not Swear.' The staff officer picked it up 
and read it, then opened the door before mentioned and laid the 
tract on the table in front of the general's chair. Soon after, he 
was heard entering his office, his movements being observed by 
the staff officer through the slightly drawn curtain. The general 
took up the pamphlet, read it, and threw it across the room, with 
a very emphatic remark. After a moment's reflection he arose 
from his seat, took his crutches, went across the room, picked up 
the tract, and laid it gently upon the table, and then resumed his 
duties. I mention this incident to show that beneath that 
brusque and impetuous demeanor there was a sense of right and 
justice, and indicated that on the exterior he might appear impul- 
sive, yet his heart was in the right place." 

Lieut.-Col. Charles H. Parkhurst, of the Third Rhode Island 
Cavalry, says of him: "As a Rhode Islander I have always felt 
that General Sherman's abilities as a military man were not prop- 
erly recognized during the war. He had no political wires to pull, 
and no politicians were enlisted in his service or were welcome at 
his headquarters. He was every inch a soldier. He was faithful 
to every duty. He always obeyed and always insisted on obedi- 
ence. He was not easily convinced of error, and was not gra- 
cious to criticism, especially from subordinates, whom he had 
perhaps unjustly criticised, and when the attempt was made there 
was generally more strong Saxon than polite French in the gen- 
eral's language." 

These statements will find an echoing response from every sol- 
dier who served in the Department of the Gulf. Long and faith- 
fully he had served his country, and when the Rebellion came he 



J2 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

was among the foremost to stoutly defend the cause of the Union 
in its hour of need. 

On the 18th of August, 1864, Captain Addeman says: "A 
scouting party of our cavalry was captured at Grand River and 
others in our nearer vicinity. We had two companies of the 
Thirty-first Massachusetts Mounted Infantry, who were used for 
vidette duty. Being more exposed than our own pickets, they 
suffered occasionally from guerrilla raids. One party of them 
was surprised, probably in consequence of a little carelessness, 
and were taken prisoners, with the exception of one man who was 
killed. He had been a prisoner once before and fought to the last 
rather than again be captured. On some of these occasions the 
attacking parties were dressed in our own uniform. 

"All through the country back of us, a constant and merciless 
conscription was going on, sweeping in all able-bodied men 
between fifteen and sixty years of age. Of course many refugees 
and occasional deserters came within our lines. 

" During the fall of 1864, we received from time to time rein- 
forcements of several companies of colored engineer troops, who 
continued the work on the fort which we had begun. Though 
not comparing with the arduousness of field service, our duties 
were by no means slight. It must be remembered that we were 
in a semi-tropical country, where to an unacclimated person the 
climate itself was almost a deadly foe. The extreme heat produced 
a lethargy that was depressing in the extreme. In a few days of 
dry weather the surface of the ground would be baked like a 
brick. Then would come most violent storms, converting the 
soil into a quagmire, and covering it with water like a lake. At 
this time there was no small danger of falling into the deep 
ditches with which the fields were intersected, for drainage. In 
this way I lost one man of my company. Of course it will be 
understood how productive of disease would be the malaria from 
the soil and the adjacent swamps. Our men, with all their buoy- 
ancy of disposition, had not the resolute will of white men, when 
attacked by sickness, and would succumb with fatal rapidity. As 
captain of a company, my most arduous duty, when not on special 
duty or detached service, was as field officer of the day. This 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 73 

necessitated the visiting occasionally during the day and night, 
our videttes and picket posts which were stationed on the roads 
into the country, and at intersecting points in the fields ; and also 
crossing in a skiff the Mississippi River, to visit the troops sta- 
tioned to guard a telegraph station on the other side. This sta- 
tion was in the vicinity of a famous duelling ground, — a path not 
far from the river bank, — to which in former days the young 
bloods of the town would resort to repair their wounded honor, 
according to the rules of the code. As we were too short of horses 
always to furnish a mounted orderly, the officer of the day would 
at night have to make his rounds alone. There was a picturesque- 
ness in those rides in the solemn hours of the night, a portion of 
the way over deserted plantations where the weeds were as high 
as one's head on horseback, the path at times fringing the border 
of swamps where the moss hung in festoons from the stately 
cypress trees, past lonely negro cabins, where sometimes I heard 
the inmates in the midnight hours, singing some plaintive melody 
in tones the most subdued.'' 

The writer remembers one amusing incident that occurred 
when one of our officers was detailed as field officer of the day. 
As he was about to make his rounds of the picket lines in the day 
time he procured for that purpose not the ordinary steed to per- 
form that duty, but astride a veritable large white mule, he fur- 
nished considerable sport among the soldiers in camp, and 
doubtless astonished the natives while making his rounds. 

In referring to the peculiarities of the African race, as has 
already been noted their powers of mimicry are proverbial. We 
were often amused at their light-hearted jokes and the emphatic 
criticisms of each other in which they indulged. About three- 
quarters of a mile from our camp, on the road to Indian Village, 
a picket post was established, consisting of a commissioned officer 
and several men. An abandoned dwelling-house was used by the 
picket guard when not on immediate duty. On the lower floor 
were two large rooms. One was occupied by the officer of the 
picket, and the other by the men of his guard. While on duty at 
this post one night I laid down on my blanket and the soldiers in 
the adjoining room, thinking I was fast asleep, commenced to 



74 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

mimic the characteristics of every person they could call to remem- 
brance. The officers of the battalion came in for their share, and 
even the commanding officer was not exempt. 

One of our officers has well said : "We wake in the morning 
and our eyes fall on our colored soldiers, and a good many of 
them. A musket shot is heard at midnight, and a long row of 
sable soldiers is before our eyes, springing up as it were from the 
ground, like Minerva, full-armed from the head of Jove. They 
charm us with their sweet strains of music, or make the air 
resound with their patriotic intentions were they possessed of a 
' white horse.' ' Their powers of imagination and mimicry were 
inexhaustible, and they could imitate to perfection the sounds of 
almost every animal in existence. To one with an eye and ear 
for the comic, there may be found among them an unceasing 
fund of amusement ; while one who looks on the tragic phase of 
life may find in their wrongs sufficient to awake his most phil- 
anthropic sympathies." 

We were fortunate in having in the Second Battalion a string 
band, and certainly no minstrel troupe could have offered better 
or more pleasing entertainment than our colored musicians. 
Their services were often called into requisition by the officers at 
post and battalion headquarters, the officers on the gunboats, and 
by the Union citizens in the vicinity. We recall one burly mem- 
ber of this band, who " played the bones." He had the jaws of a 
veritable Samson, for he would pick up a heavy chair with his 
teeth, and hold it aloft, while " playing the bones " at the same 
time. 

How well the officers of the Second Battalion remember the 
long rides taken outside of our picket lines, and the consciousness 
of the fact that we were on debatable ground, and any moment 
liable to run into an ambush, where the wily jayhawker or Con- 
federate trooper might pick us off, and we become the inmate of 
some southern prison pen, added zest to the excitement of the 
hour. We recall one pleasant trip to the vicinity of Baton Rouge, 



1 The " White Horse " was a refrain familiar to the men of the Fourteenth, the first 
lines of which, if I remember rightly, ran something like this : 

" Oh, if I had an old white horse I'd go and jine the Union. 
Hurrah ! hurrah! I'll fight for Uncle Sam ! " 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 75 

a few miles above, where we viewed from the opposite bank of the 
river the ruins of the State House, which had been burned at an 
early period of the war. 

Baton Rouge was first occupied by the Union forces on the 
morning of May 12, 1862. The capitol was occupied by the 
Fourth Wisconsin, and the national colors were hoisted over the 
building. The troops then re-embarked for Vicksburg. 

On the 29th of the same month the Union troops under Gen. 
Thomas Williams once more landed and took post at Baton Rouge. 
During their absence of seventeen days, the Confederates had 
improved the opportunity to remove much valuable property that 
had been found stored in the arsenal on the occasion of the first 
landing of the Union forces. 

About daylight on the morning of the 5th of August, 1862, the 
place was attacked by the Confederates, under Gen. John C. 
Breckinridge, with three picked brigades. The Union forces 
under General Williams were posted in rear of the arsenal and 
of the town, occupying an irregular line generally parallel to the 
Bayou Sara road, and extending from the Bayou Grosse, on the 
left, to and beyond the intersection of the Perkins and Clay Cut 
roads on the right. 

The battle was short, but the fighting was severe, and both sides 
suffered heavily. As the fog which had been hovering over the 
combatants lifted, it became clear to both parties that the attack 
had failed. The force of the fierce Confederate onset was quite 
spent. The Union lines, however thinned and shattered, remained 
in possession of the field, and the Confederates withdrew. The 
brave General Williams met his death here while leading a charge 
of the Twenty-first Indiana which lost all its field officers. 

A writer in describing Baton Rouge says : " The capital of 
Louisiana deserves that the origin of its name of Baton Rouge, 
or Red Stick, be recorded. It is well known that the cypress 
tree, in this southern climate, rises to a prodigious height, and 
that its back is of a reddish hue. Its trunk is shorn of branches, 
and its head alone wears a leafy crown. In Nature's book of 
architecture it represents the pillar with its chapiter. La Page 
du Pratz relates that, in his time, there was yet to be seen on the 



?6 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

present site of the capital of Louisiana a famous cypress tree, out 
of which a carpenter had offered to build two boats, one of sixteen 
tons, and the other of fourteen. 'As the wood of the cypress tree 
is red,' says La Page du Pratz, 'one of the first travelers who 
arrived at this locality exclaimed that this tree would make a fine 
stick. Hence the name of Baton Rouge (Red Stick) given to this 
place. With regard to the tree, its height has not as yet been 
measured. It towers almost beyond sight.' " 

Irwin in his The Nineteenth Army Corps, says : "At Baton 
Rouge the Mississippi washes for the last time the base of the 
high and steep bluffs that for so many hundreds of miles have 
followed the coasts of the great river and formed the contour of 
its left bank, overlooking its swift yellow waters and the vast low- 
lands of the western shore. The bluff is lower at Baton Rouge 
than it is above and slopes more gently to the water's edge ; and 
here the highland draws back from the river and gradually fades 
away in a southeasterly direction towards the Gulf, while the 
country becomes more open and less broken. The stiff post-ter- 
tiary clays that compose the soil of these bluffs were in many 
places covered with a rich growth of timber, great magnolias and 
beautiful live oaks replacing the rank cottonwood and tangled 
willows of the lowlands, as well as the giant cypresses of the 
impenetrable swamps, with their mournful hangings of Spanish 
moss, and the wild grape binding them fast in a deadly embrace." 




CAPT. THOMAS W. FRY 



CHAPTER IX 

Col. J. Halk Sypher Appointed Colonel of the Regiment — His 
Arrival in the Department — Assumes Command of the Regi- 
ment with Headquarters at Plaquemine — Correspondence 
Between Capt. W. B. Ratcliffe, Commanding Confederate 
Forces West of the Atchafalaya, and Colonel Sypher, 
Concerning Alleged Ill-Treatment of Citizens — Colonel 
Sypher's Reply — Illegal Traffic and Smuggling Betweex 
tiie Lines. 

JULY 9, 1864, J. Hale Sypher was commissioned and appointed 
by the President colonel of the regiment. On the 10th day 
of August, 1864, he assumed command of the regiment, and made 
his headquarters at Plaquemine with the Second Battalion. He 
had enlisted as a private soldier in the First Regiment, Ohio 
Light Artillery, April 21, 1861, and participated during its three 
months' service in the campaigns and battles of West Virginia. 
On the expiration of his three months' term of enlistment he 
was engaged in recruiting and organizing Battery B, First Ohio 
Light Artillery, and, Oct. 8, 186 1, was mustered with his battery 
as first lieutenant. On the 20th of November, 1863, he was com- 
missioned and mustered as captain of the battery, and served in 
the Army of the Cumberland, participating in its campaigns 
and battles until Feb. 3, 1864, when he resigned. 

On assuming command of the regiment Colonel Sypher issued 
the following order : 

Headquarters, iith Regiment, U. S. C. A. (Hy.), 

Plaquemine, La., Aug. 24, 1864. 
General Orders, No. 32. 

In compliance with S. O. No. 21S, Dept. of the Gulf, I assume command 
of the nth Regiment, U. S. C. Artillery (Heavy), with Regimental Head- 
quarters located at Plaquemine, La. 

(Sgd,) J. H. SYPHER, 

Col. Commdg. Regt. 
(Official) J. C Whiting, Jr., 

Adjutant. 



yS FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

On the 30th of August, 1864, Colonel Sypher forwarded the 
following communication to Headquarters, Department of the 

Gulf: 

Headquarters U. S. Forces, 

Plaquemine, La., Aug. 30, 1864. 
Maj. George B. Drake, Assistant Adjutant-General Dept. of the Gulf. 
Major : I have the honor to transmit the enclosed correspondence be- 
tween Capt. W. B. Ratcliffe, C. S. Army, and myself, under flag of truce. 

I am, very respectfully, your obd't servant, 

J. H. SYPHER, 
Colonel Commanding Post, Plaquemine, La. 

(Inclosure No. 1.) 

Advance Post, Aug. 28, 1864. 
Major Shaw, Commanding U. S. Forces at Plaquemine. 

Major : I am directed by His Excellency Henry W. Allen, Governor of 
the State of Louisiana, and E. Kirby Smith, commander of Trans-Missis- 
sippi Department, to pass through to your lines Lieut. -Col. T. G. Sparks, 
a member of the staff of His Excellency, with a flag of truce. He is in- 
structed to inquire whether the reports which have reached headquarters at 
Shreveport are true, that several unoffending citizens of this State have 
been arrested to be executed or held in some manner for punishment in re- 
taliation for the alleged killing of certain Negroes found in arms near 
Indian Village by Captain McAnnelly, of the C. S. Army. Should these 
reports prove true, and you are determined to adopt a course so harsh and 
at variance with the usages of civilized warfare, he is directed by Gen. E. 
Kirby Smith to inform you that he will be compelled, however painful the 
alternative may be, to retaliate by meting out the same punishment, which 
you may inflict upon them, upon an equal number of the Federal prisoners 
now in his possession near Shreveport. 

I am, major, very respectfully, 

W. B. RATCLIFFE, 
Captain Commanding Forces West of Atchafalaya. 



(Inclosure No. 2.) 

Headquarters, U. S. Forces, 

Plaquemine, La., Aug. 30, 1864. 
Capt. W. B. Ratcliffe, Commanding Confederate Forces West of Atch- 
afalaya. 
Captain : I have the honor to communicate, in reply to your letter of 
28th of August, 1S64, that to my knowledge there are no citizens held as 
prisoners awaiting punishment in retaliation for the reported cruel and in- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 79 

human murder of three soldiers of the nth Regiment United States Col- 
ored Artillery (Heavy), captured near Plaquemine, La., by Captain 
McAnnelly, Confederate forces, on the 6th of August, 1S64. 

I am, captain, very respectfully 

Your obedient servant, 

J. II. SYPHER, 
Colonel Commanding Post Plaquemine, La. 

Why the so-called governor of Louisiana should have sent such 
a messenger on such an errand is more than we can conjecture, 
for certainly all prisoners that were ever placed in charge of the 
United States forces at Plaquemine were treated with kindness 
and consideration. In the letter to Major Shaw the writer 
{Captain Ratcliffe) shows either his vindictiveness or ignorance by 
referring to " the alleged killing of certain Negroes found in 
arms." Now these " Negroes " were recognized soldiers of the 
United States Army, commanded by officers receiving their com- 
missions direct from the President of the United States himself, 
and even the name of the regiment — Eleventh United States 
Colored Artillery (Heavy) was alone sufficient to indicate that they 
were regularly mustered into the United States service. That the 
three soldiers of Company G of the Second Battalion were " in- 
humanly murdered " is an indisputable fact, and was worthy only 
the treatment which would naturally be expected at the hands of 
barbarians instead of civilized soldiers of the nineteenth century. 
Colonel Sypher's reply to this uncalled for communication was 
dignified and courteous, and not to our knowledge was anything 
more said about " retaliation " on the part of the Confederate 
authorities. 

The old adage, " Consistency is a jewel," is well illustrated by 
this Confederate governor, who refused to acknowledge that col- 
ored soldiers of the United States Army were entitled to any con- 
sideration whatever, but who, only a few days later, in a commu- 
nication addressed to James A. Seddon, Confederate Secretary of 
War, advocated and urged the arming of " every able bodied 
Negro man as a soldier." 

The following general order issued by Maj.-Gen. Edward R. S. 
Canby will explain itself : 



80 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Headquarters, Military Division 

of West Mississippi, 
New Orleans, La., Oct. nth, 1864. 
General Orders, No. j8. 

The subjoined extract from a dispatch from Henry W. Allen, styling 
himself Governor of Louisiana, to the Rebel Secretary of War, is pub- 
lished for general information : 

Executive Office, 
Shreveport, La., Sept. 26, 1864. 

Hon. James A. Seddon, Scc'y War, Richmond, Va. 

My Dear Sir : 

The time has come for us to put into the army every able-bodied Negro- 
man as a soldier. This should be done immediately. Congress should, 
at the coming session, take action on this most important question. The 
Negro knows that he cannot escape conscription if he goes to the enemy. 
He must play an important part in the war. He caused the fight, and he 
will have his portion of the burden to bear. 

We have learned from dear bought experience that Negroes can be 
taught to fight, and that all who leave us are made to fight against us. I 
would free all able to bear arms, and put them into the field at once. They 
will make much better soldiers with us than against us, and swell the now 
depleted ranks of our armies. I beg you to give this your earnest atten- 
tion. 

With assurance of my friendly regard and very high esteem, I remain, 

Very respectfully, 

Your obedient servant, 
(Signed) HENRY W. ALLEN, 

Governor of Louisiana. 

The class of persons to whom it refers will not be conscripted into the 
Armies of the United States. If they come within our lines all ivill be 
freed, and they will be received and treated as refugees. They will be 
accepted as volunteers, or will be employed in the public service, and their 
families will be cared for until they are in a condition to care for them. If 
a draft should become necessary, no discrimination against them will be 
made in the enrollment or draft. 

By order of 

Major-General E. R. S. CANBY, 
Official: Lieut. Colonel, Ass 't Adjutant-General. 

Jno. G. Tilford, 

Assistant Adjutant- General. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 8l 

On the 15th of August, 1864, a flag was presented to the bat- 
talion with appropriate ceremonies. We were quite proud of our 
color, it being the gift of the officers and men of the battalion, and 
considered quite an elegant affair. Its symbols were two cross 
cannon on a field of yellow. It is now among the cherished 
colors of our commonwealth in the State House at Providence. 

Great vigilance was required to be exercised by officers and 
men to prevent unworthy persons from passing through the lines 
with goods and merchandise contrary to law. That the faithful 
service rendered by Private Joseph Dufour of Company F may 
not pass unnoticed we append the following communication sent 
by Colonel Sypher to district headquarters, which fully explains 
its import : 

Headquarters, U. S. Forces, 

Plaquemine, La., Sept. 6, 1864. 

Capt. Geo. W. Stein, A. A. Gen. Dist. Baton Rouge. 

Captain : I have the honor to make the following statement concerning 
two men, representing themselves to be citizens of this parish, and residing 
near Indian Village, who were arrested by my orders for bribing a guard 
and passing the lines of this Post, on the night of the 4th instant, as fol- 
lows : 

Michael Duyier and Roman Duprez sometime during the day of the 4th 
instant offered a bribe of twenty dollars ($20) to one of the guards to allow 
them to pass the lines that night. The guard reported this affair to his 
officer, who at once communicated the facts to these headquarters. I 
directed that the guard should receive the money, and that the officer of the 
guard should at the same time be in the vicinity with a sufficient force to 
apprehend them immediately after they had passed the lines. 

My directions to the officer were successfully executed, and the two men 
above named are now confined in jail, awaiting the orders of the Gen- 
eral Commanding which I shall be pleased to execute promptly. 

I am, Captain, very respectfully, 

Your Ob'dt Serv't, 

J. II. SYPHER, 
Col. nth U. S. C. A. (Hy), Coma" g Post. 

Colonel Sypher was directed to cause charges to be made and 
placed in the hands of the Military Commission that convened at 
Plaquemine on the 28th of September, 1864. The officers com- 

6 



82 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

posing the court were: Maj. R. G. Shaw, president; Capt. 
Nelson Kenyon, Capt. Joshua M. Addeman, and Lieut. Lester S. 
Hill. Captain Addeman was judge advocate. 

In the case of Michael Duyier, the Commission found him 
guilty of "Bribing" and "Passing the lines without proper 
authority," and sentenced him to pay a fine of three hundred dol- 
lars and to be confined at hard labor at such place as the com- 
manding general should direct for the period of three months. 
In the case of Romain Duprez he was sentenced to pay a fine of 
five hundred dollars and to be confined at hard labor for six 
months. 

Notwithstanding all precautions considerable smuggling was 
carried on between the lines. On one occasion information was 
received by the colonel commanding our regiment that on a plan- 
tation " down the coast " (as the land adjacent to the river was 
termed), quite an extensive and illegal traffic was being main- 
tained. The writer was directed by Colonel Sypher to take two 
officers and a detachment of men from the battalion, and proceed 
to the plantation in queston and confiscate all goods that had any 
semblance of being contraband of war. An old colored man named 
Uncle Luke accompanied the party as a guide. He was loyal 
to the Union cause and willing to aid us, but was evidently 
afraid if he was discovered by the Confederates he would receive 
rough treatment at their hands. He importuned me to let him 
keep out of sight after he had guided us to our destination. To 
this I assented, and we proceeded on our way. As we drew near 
to the suspected plantation Uncle Luke pointed out to me a 
house, which proved to be the overseer's dwelling, and said I 
would find the goods we were searching for stored somewhere in 
or about the building. 

I gave Uncle Luke permission to retire from the scene, and 
then took the precaution to surround the houses in the vicinity. 
One party was sent down the road, and another deployed in the 
rear of the plantation. After these details had been attended to 
we proceeded to the overseer's dwelling and knocked vigorously 
upon the front door. At first no response was made to our sum- 
mons, but finally a man appeared at the door and inquired the 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 83 

object of our visit. We replied that we were searching for con- 
traband goods. He emphatically denied that there were any 
such goods in his possession. Going to a window on one side of 
the house we found that it opened into a small adjacent building 
or shed, which was filled with all varieties of goods that would 
have stocked a country store. Here we found clothing, shoes, 
medicines, etc., in fact everything to make glad the hearts of the 
adherents of the Confederacy. Our friend, the overseer, was 
quite dumb-founded when he saw that we had discovered his 
little trick. We subsequently searched several adjoining build- 
ings, and were rewarded by finding them stored with beef, liq- 
uors, grain, etc. We confiscated all the goods, loaded them into 
wagons, and, after arresting several white men on the plantation, 
we took them with the goods to Plaquemine and turned them over 
to the custody of the provost marshal. 

On the 2 1 st of November, 1864, an unfortunate affair happened 
on the river road in the capture of our advanced pickets. They 
were men belonging to the Thirty-first Massachusetts (mounted). 
The rebs came through the cornfield and took them in the rear 
while at dinner. Some boys who were suspected of having 
piloted them were soon after arrested by the Thirty-first, who 
mounted and immediately set off in pursuit, but could not come 
up with the main force. 

On the 19th of December long roll was sounded about two 
o'clock a. m., caused by the appearance of some refugees and 
rebel conscripting parties on the "Island" across the bayou. 

On the 24th of the same month it was reported that an attack 
on Baton Rouge was constantly expected. The night before the 
women and non-combatants were on the levee. We were ordered 
by Major Shaw to sleep on our arms. 



CHAPTER X 

Settlement of New Orleans — General Jackson's Defence of 
the Place in 1815 — Occupation by the Federal Forces in 
1862 Under General Butler — He is Succeeded by General 
Banks — Resume of Affairs in the Department of the Gulf 
— Situation of New Orleans — Notable Buildings — St. 
Charles Hotel — The French Quarter. 

AS New Orleans was the headquarters of the Department of 
the Gulf it seems fitting that we should allude to affairs in 
the department and give a brief description of the city. New 
Orleans, as is well known, was settled by the French, in 1717. 
In 1762 the place was conveyed to the Spanish, and recon- 
veyed to the French in 1800, and included in the purchase of 
Louisiana by the United States in 1803. At this time it con- 
tained a population of 8,000. In 1804 it was made a port of 
entry, and the next year it was incorporated as a city. In 1810 
its population had increased to 17,217. 

Louisiana had been purchased from the French during Presi- 
dent Jefferson's administration. He predicted a brilliant future 
for this southern emporium even at that early day, and is reported 
to have said that " The position of New Orleans certainly des- 
tines it to be the greatest city the world has ever seen." He ex- 
cepted neither Rome nor Babylon. 

When Napeoleon was informed of the conclusion of the treaty 
he said : " This accession of territory strengthens forever the 
power of the United States; and I have just given to England a 
maritime rival that will sooner or later humble her pride." And 
he further said : " The day may come when the cession of Louisi- 
ana to the United States shall render the Americans too power- 
ful for the continent of Europe." 

Prior to the Rebellion New Orleans was the first city in wealth 
and population of the Southern States. She had a population of 
nearly 170,000, and an export trade larger than that of any other 
port in the country, and a commerce second only to New York. 



FOURTEENTH R. I. HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 85 

On the 8th of January, 18 15, General Packenham, commanding 
the English forces, made an attack on the city, approaching it by 
way of Lake Borgne. General Jackson, commander of the Ameri- 
can army, was strongly entrenched at Chalmette, four miles 
below the city. Packenham made a general assault on Jackson's 
lines, and the assailants were hopelessly defeated. Packenham 
fell, and nearly ever)- officer was disabled. The British withdrew 
with a loss of two thousand men. The Americans lost but 
twenty-seven in killed and wounded. Jackson was hailed by a 
grateful country as the saviour of New Orleans. 

General Jackson's employment of blacks in his famous defence 
of New Orleans, his public and vigorous reprobation of the " mis- 
taken policy " which had hitherto excluded them from the service, 
and his emphatic attestation of their bravery and good conduct 
while serving under his eye, are too well known to require cita- 
tion or comment. 

After the occupation of New Orleans by the Federal forces 
under General Butler, in April, 1862, his whole policy was 
directed to the maintenance of the national authority in the city. 
By his prompt and vigorous measures he supplied food to the 
suffering people ; he gave employment and support to the poor ; 
he restored a sound currency ; secured good order and safety to 
life and property, such as the community had not for years en- 
joyed ; he adopted a system of sanitary measures which preserved 
the city from pestilence, and will stand as an example for future 
years ; he administered justice to the poor, not infrequently retri- 
bution to the oppressor or swindler, and he afforded protection to 
the oppressed, both bond and free. 

General Butler found in New Orleans two regiments of free 
Negroes, called " Native Guards," which had been organized by 
the Confederate authorities and enrolled for the defence of the 
city against the expected attack by the forces of the Union. 
When the Confederates fled these troops remained at home. 
From the men composing these regiments and additional recruits 
General Butler organized three regiments of colored troops. One 
regiment was mustered within fourteen days of the call, the first 
regiment of colored troops ever mustered into the service of the 



S 



86 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

United States during the War of the Rebellion. These colored 
regiments did good service, and many of these soldiers laid down 
their lives at Port Hudson in equal numbers, comparatively, with 
their white brothers-in-arms. 

Gen. Nathaniel P. Banks succeeded General Butler in com- 
mand of the Department of the Gulf, in December, 1862. The 
Federal government had determined by a vigorous campaign to 
reopen the Mississippi, and thus to gain an immense advantage 
in the transportation of troops and supplies, as well as to cut the 
rebel Confederacy in twain, dividing the enemy's forces, and dis- 
tributing their supplies. To accomplish this purpose, while Gen- 
eral Grant operated from the north, General Banks was to act in 
co-operation with another column from the south. 

General Banks took with him from New York a force of about 
ten thousand men, a large part of them from New England, 
which, with the troops then in Louisiana, it was supposed would 
be sufficient to assist in opening the Mississippi and to operate in 
Texas also. The season was inclement, and the expedition did 
not reach New Orleans without some disasters and delays, and it 
was then found that the position of military affairs in Louisiana 
was such that active operations could not be immediately com- 
menced, nor were the forces there sufficiently large for movements 
up the Mississippi and into Texas at the same time. A detach- 
ment of General Banks's troops had been ordered to Texas upon 
their arrival at the mouths of the Mississippi, but a disaster to 
the advance of this detachment and to the naval force at Galves- 
ton showed that operations could not well be undertaken there 
except by a large force. General Banks, therefore, prepared for 
the campaign in Louisiana, and for the opening of the Mississippi, 
and in March, 1863, concentrated his forces at Baton Rouge. 
They numbered about twenty-five thousand men, and a naval force 
consisting of the most effective gunboats of Admiral Farragut's 
fleet was in the river, ready to co-operate with the land forces. 

On the 13th of March a demonstration was made against Port 
Hudson, in order to divert the attention of the enemy while a part 
of the fleet ran by the batteries to co-operate with the force 
above, and cut off supplies. Nothing material was accomplished 




dk 




CAPT. [IENRY SIMON 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 87 

by the demonstration, nor was it sufficiently active or threatening 
to cause any alarm among the rebels, or to divert their attention 
from the gunboats, whose attack they most feared. 

General Banks then directed his operations into the interior of 
Louisiana, to the region of the Teche and Atchafalaya Rivers, 
comprising the rich parishes of La Fourche, Terrebone, Assump- 
tion, and others, where the planters still continued their agricul- 
tural labors, and a large amount of supplies was furnished for the 
rebel armies. Banks moved his army by the way of Brashear 
City (now Morgan City). On the 10th of April he crossed over 
to Berwick, and advanced toward the Teche country, which was 
held by the rebel forces. General Banks made a successful and 
rapid campaign through this rich portion of Louisiana, and in- 
flicted heavy damage upon the rebels, by capturing material, 
scattering their forces, and preventing the raising of future sup- 
plies. He had penetrated the enemy's country as far as Alexan- 
dria, where meeting no further resistance he moved to Simmes- 
port for the purpose of proceeding thence to Port Hudson. 

Banks left Simmesport on the 20th of May, for Bayou Sara, 
five miles above Port Hudson, where his forces landed on the 21st. 
At the same time other troops under command of General Augur 
and Gen. Thomas W. Sherman, which had come up from New 
Orleans, advanced from Baton Rouge to the south side of Port 
Hudson. A junction of the forces on the north and south was 
made on the 22d of May, and Port Hudson was invested. On 
the 26th the general disposition of the Federal troops was com- 
pleted, and an attack was ordered to take place the next day. 
The artillery of General Banks opened along his whole line 
early in the morning, on the 27th, and continued several hours 
before the infantry advanced. On the right the infantry attack 
was made by parts of the divisions of Generals Grover and 
Emory and the brigade of General Wertzel, with two regiments of 
colored troops under Colonel Paine. On the left were the 
divisions of Generals Augur and Sherman. The enemy made a 
stubborn resistance, but they were gradually forced to abandon 
their rifle-pits and other outworks, and to retreat to their main 
fortifications. The contest was fierce and sanguinary, but our 



88 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

troops pressed on, making several assaults, charging gallantly up 
the slope of the works, and for a time held the outer side of the 
parapet, while the rebels, with fierce energy, kept them from en- 
tering. The colored troops made three charges upon the rebel 
batteries, and, though they suffered heavy losses, showed great 
bravery and steadiness, and maintained their ground to the last. 
Their conduct was commended by General Banks and all the 
officers who witnessed it, and their gallantry was cordially ac- 
knowledged by their white comrades. After repeated attempts 
made by the Federals on the right and left, the contest ceased, 
the Union forces holding their advanced positions. It was seen, 
however, that Port Hudson could not be captured by assault with 
the forces under General Banks, but that heavy re-enforcements 
and a close siege would be necessary to obtain possession of this 
stronghold. The positions gained by the Federals were firmly 
held. After a bombardment of several days it was determined to 
make another attempt to carry the place by assault. 

On the 14th of June the attack was made by several assaulting 
columns, but these assaults were unsuccessful, and the Federals 
were finally forced to retire. The place was, therefore, more 
closely invested, and the siege works pushed forward. While 
these operations were in progress news was received of the sur- 
render of Vicksburg to General Grant. This intelligence was 
conveyed to General Gardner, the commander of the rebel forces 
at Port Hudson, who saw that further resistance was useless, and 
on the 9th of July surrendered his entire army to General Banks. 

While Banks was operating against Port Hudson, the rebels 
west of the Mississippi exhibited great activity. The withdrawal 
of the Federal troops from the country to strengthen Banks's 
army, left that region open to the operations of the Confederate 
forces. The Teche, La Fourche, and other districts were soon 
re-occupied, and attacks were made on some of the small Federal 
garrisons, which had been left at important points, but generally 
without success. At Brashear City, however, the enemy were 
more successful. They captured the place, with a considerable 
number of prisoners, several pieces of artillery, and a large quan- 
tity of ammunition and supplies. The Confederates succeeded 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 89 

in regaining a wide extent of territory, a great part of the confis- 
cated cotton, and a large number of slaves, and in the capture of 
fifteen hundred prisoners. After the occupation of Port Hudson 
General Banks subsequently transferred the greater part of his 
forces to other parts of Louisiana, and the rebels made haste to 
abandon the country east of the Atchafalaya, evacuating Brashear 
City just one month after its capture, but not until they had 
stripped it of everything of value that was removable or combus- 
tible. 

Soon after the occupation of Port Hudson Banks proposed to 
move on Mobile. This had, indeed, been among the objects 
specially contemplated by his first instructions from the govern- 
ment, and in the progress of events had become the next in 
natural order. This was also in accordance with General Grant's 
plans. But these plans were overruled at Washington. 

On the 26th of October, 1863, General Banks led an expedition 
immediately commanded by Gen. N. J. T. Dana and made directly 
for the Rio Grande, debarking on the 2d of November, at Brazos, 
Santiago, driving off the small cavalry force stationed there, and 
following it to Brownsville, thirty miles above, which was entered 
by our advance on the 16th, as was Point Isabel two days later. 
The Confederate works commanding Aransas Pass were next 
taken by assault, which gave us their guns and one hundred 
prisoners 1 Moving thence on Pass Cavallo, commanding the 
western entrance to Matagorda Bay, our army invested Fort 
Esperanza, which was thereupon abandoned, most of its garrison 
escaping to the main land. 2 Banks had expected to follow up 
this success — which gave us control of the coast from the Rio 
Grande to the Brazos — by a movement on Indianola or on Mata- 
gorda ; but this involved a collision with whatever Confederate 
force could be collected in Texas ; and he deemed himself too 
weak to challenge such an encounter. With a moderate re- 
enforcement he might have seized Galveston Island — sealing up 



1 Company A of the First Battalion was ordered to Aransas Pass in April, 1S64, to 
take charge of the guns at that station. 

J The First Battalion, it will be remembered, garrisoned this fort from Jan. S, 1S64, to 
May 19, 1864. 



90 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

the coast of Texas against blockade runners ; as it was, he felt 
obliged to desist and return to New Orleans. 

The next important movement in the southwest was that of 
General Banks in the spring of 1864 to occupy the Red River 
country in Western Louisiana, which was still held by the Con- 
federates, and was supposed to abound in cotton and other pro- 
ducts. For this purpose General Banks organized an expedition 
from New Orleans, to be re-enforced by divisions under the com- 
mand of Gen. A. J. Smith from Gen. W. T. Sherman's army, 
which was then at Vicksburg, and to have the co-operation of a 
most formidable fleet under Admiral Porter, as well as of a dis- 
tinct force under General Steele, which was to advance from 
Littte Rock, Arkansas. The movement had a political as well as 
a military purpose, being designed, in part, like the occupation of 
the Rio Grande, the previous year, to show to the new Mexican 
Empire and its founder, the Emperor of the French, that the 
United States asserted its power in the whole of the southwest, 
and to prevent the consummation of supposed plots by which the 
Confederates were to receive recognition from the French. 

This movement made by Banks, known as the " Red River 
Expedition," has already been alluded to in detail in another 
chapter, and it will suffice to say that it was disastrous to the 
Union arms. At Simmesport, on the return march from Alexan- 
dria, Banks was met by Canby, who, on the nth of May, at 
Cairo, or on the way thence to Memphis, had assumed command 
of the new-made Military Division of West Mississippi, in virtue 
of orders from Washington, dated the 7th. General Banks, 
however, remained the titular commander of the Department of 
the Gulf. 

New Orleans is situated on the Mississippi River, about one 
hundred miles above its delta. The older part of the city was 
built upon the left bank of the Mississippi, following a bend of 
the river, which gave it a crescent shape, whence its popular sobri- 
quet, " the Crescent City." Later, its growth up the river, fol- 
lowing an outward curve of the stream, changed the form of the 
city on the left bank nearly to that of an S. But the city at the 
present time has been enlarged so as to comprehend nearly all of 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 91 

Orleans parish (excepting only a number of small islets, called 
Les Petites Coquilles, in Lake Catharine, betweeen Pontchartrain 
and Borgne Lakes), and parts of Jefferson and Plaquemine Par- 
ishes, including Algiers and Gretna on the right bank of the river. 
The streets of New Orleans mostly run nearly east and west, and 
north and south, generally intersecting one another at right 
angles, except in the upper and lower extensions, where some 
have been adapted to the windings of the river, so that some of 
them meet and diverge at strangely irregular intervals and are in- 
tersected at very different angles. In the original or French city, 
the streets, with the exception of Royal, Rampart, and Esplanade 
are very narrow, generally not exceeding forty feet in width, but 
those of the portion distinguished as the American city are broad 
and exceedingly handsome thoroughfares. Canal is the main 
business street, especially for the retail trade, and is a favorite 
promenade. 

Among the notable buildings of the city of a more or less 
public character is the custom house, built of Quincy granite, and 
is one of the largest edifices in this country. The basement is 
fitted up and used for the post-office. The branch mint is also a 
large building, well adapted for its purpose. The state house 
was, until 1874, a famous hotel, known as the St. Louis. The 
city hall is one of the finest buildings in the city, architecturally, 
being in the Ionic and of white marble. 

The officers and men of the regiment will remember the trips 
taken to New Orleans for business or pleasure. The historic St. 
Charles was generally the headquarters of the officers visiting the 
city. You could feel confident of meeting here some of your ac- 
quaintances if they were in town. Under its spacious portico 
might be seen officers of all grades, from the brigadier-general 
with the star on his shoulder, to the lieutenant wearing the plain 
strap. It was here that General Butler established his headquar- 
ters when New Orleans was occupied by the Federal forces. 
Since its destruction by fire in the spring of 1894, it has a pecu- 
liar interest to the soldiers who served in the Department of the 
Gulf, and we cannot forbear quoting from an article in the Har- 
per's Weekly. It says : 



92 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

"All travelers who visit New Orleans find in that city much 
that is interesting. But nearly all of these, in recent years, at 
least, find what interests them in the Creole part of the town, 
where the remnants of a once proud, though a mixed race, pro- 
test ineffectually against the innovations of an iconoclastic age. 
But there has been in the St. Charles Hotel, until the other day, 
when it was destroyed by fire, a place outside of the Creole part 
of the city, and distinct from the Creole touch in every way, that 
to every one with a head above his eyes, was of very great inter- 
est. Those who have visited this hotel recently, say al any time 
during ten years past, will remember it as a very shabby and very 
dirty place, vilely kept, and in every way uncomfortable: But it 
was interesting during this period, and, indeed, during the whole 
period since the breaking out of the war, merely on account of its 
importance in earlier days as the greatest gathering place of the 
society of the South. To be sure, the house itself was of some 
architectural pretension, and Lady Wortley Montague, with an 
enthusiasm that overleaped discrimination, compared the building 
with its immense dome and Corinthian portion to St. Peter's at 
Rome. Originally finished in 1837, the St. Charles had a pro- 
jecting portico of six immense Corinthian columns, and this 
famous dome, forty-six feet in diameter. Across the street was 
an annex to the St. Charles, the Veranda, and the walls of this 
were said to have been frescoed by Canova. The Veranda 
burned down in 1851, and part of the St. Charles went also in the 
conflagration. The famous dome was destroyed, and never re- 
built. 

" The St. Charles and the Veranda were opened by a grand 
ball on the 2 2d of February, 1837, and, from that time on, the 
hotel was the scene of endless festivities. Pretty nearly every 
cotton planter in the South, and the majority of the merchants in 
the Mississippi Valley south of St. Louis, went once or twice a 
year to New Orleans on business, and more frequently than not 
these trips were for pleasure also. They took the gayer members 
of their families with them, and when in New Orleans they 
stopped at the St. Charles. The New Orleans business men en- 
couraged these visits, and did all that they could to make the 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 93 

strangers happy. And they have the gift of knowing how to be 
agreeable in New Orleans in the highest degree. If any one 
would care for testimony on this subject there are Mr. Thack- 
eray's remarks to be found in the Roundabout Papers. What is 
more to the purpose, even though the St. Charles long ago be- 
came shabby and uncomfortable, and though it is now only a 
blackened ruin, the New Orleans people are as happy and grace- 
ful as of yore in their boundless hospitality. 

" It was in one of the parlors of this hotel that Jefferson Davis 
and other Southern leaders decided on the course that was pur- 
sued at the Charleston Convention in i860 — a course that pre- 
cipitated the rebellion. But the St. Charles will not be remem- 
bered for this, but rather for the innocent pleasures of which it 
was the scene for years ' before the waV " This hotel has since 
been rebuilt. 

New Orleans is a cosmopolitan city, for here may be found 
representatives of nearly every race under the sun. As the place 
was originally settled by the French, their descendants form 
a large portion of the population. We quote from a well 
known writer who visited that city. He says: "The Carnival 
was a very splendid one ; but that which enchanted me most 
was the perfect Parisian society which was found on one side of 
Canal Street, and the as completely American community that 
existed on the other. In the French quarter you see French 
dressmakers and milliners, libraries full of French novels and 
newspapers, French restaurants and cafe's. In the old French 
market can be obtained the renowned ' drip ' coffee, which is so 
strong that it is said to stain the saucer into which it is poured. 
All over the city you find excellent French restaurants, while 
at a place of entertainment on the way to Lake Pontchartrain 
they not only give you as good a cuisine as you can obtain in 
France, but show you the autograph book in which there is a 
true eulogium of the fish stew in the handwriting of Thackeray 
and signed by him." 



CHAPTER XI 

Location of the Several Battalions of the Regiment in August, 
1864 — Affairs in the Third Battalion — A Detachment from 
the Battalion on Picket Duty at Pass Manchac — Company 
Funds of the Battalion — How Accumulated and Expended — 
Battalion Council of Administration Appropriates Four 
Hundred Dollars for the Purpose of Organizing a Band — 
The Band a Success — Letter of a Correspondent from 
Fort Banks to the "Providence Evening Bulletin" Giving 
a Description of the Fort and Adjacent Country and 
Affairs at the Post — Strength of the Regiment Dec. 31, 
1S64 — Parade of the Third Battalion in New Orleans. 

IN August, 1864, the several battalions of the regiment were 
located as follows : The First Battalion was stationed at 
Fort Jackson, La. This work with Fort St. Philip on the oppo- 
site shore mounted about one hundred and forty heavy guns. 
The Second Battalion was stationed at Plaquemine, La. The 
fort at this place mounted about nine guns. The Third Bat- 
talion was stationed at Camp Parapet, just above Carrolton. As 
has already been mentioned, the line of field works at Camp 
Parapet was over a mile in length, extending from the Mississippi 
River to the New Orleans and Jackson Railroad, and to the swamp v 
beyond. This was a well-built cremaillere line, and mounted 
about twenty heavy guns, and was garrisoned by about 1,600 
infantry, 500 heavy artillery and two light batteries. Fort Banks 
covered the approach on the west bank of the river. It was 
an earth work mounting five thirty-two pounders and two light 
field pieces. 

All boats, luggers, and sailing craft bound up or down the river 
were brought to Fort Banks and inspected, to prevent contraband 
of war passing within the enemy's lines. A record of the same 
was required to be kept, as also of every team and its contents 
passing up on both sides of the river ; and of all these a report 



FOURTEENTH R. L HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 95 

was to be made and forwarded to headquarters of the Defences of 
New Orleans, with the custom house permits allowing the same. 

In June, 1S64, while the First Battalion was stationed at Camp 
Parapet, Capt. Thomas Fry of that battalion was detached to the 
temporary command of the Chicago Mercantile Battery, its offi- 
cers eithers either being sick or on detached service. Lieut. 
Warren Ralph of the Third Battalion and Lieut. Daniel J. Viall 
of the First were also detailed to this battery. The battery at 
this time was dismounted and was serving as infantry. It had 
seen hard service in the battle of Sabine Cross Roads on the 
Red River expedition, where it had lost all of its guns. Our 
officers were on duty but a short time with this command, being 
relieved and returned to the regiment in July, 1864. The men 
of this battery were said to be composed of splendid material. 

In June, 1864, a detachment from the battalion, under Lieut. 
Benjamin D. Jones, was placed as a picket guard at Pass Manchac, 
thirty miles up the Jackson and New Orleans Railroad, where the 
enemy required constant watching to prevent contraband goods 
from Mobile and other points from passing the lines at the head 
of the lake. The bastion at this place mounted two heavy guns 
and a field howitzer. 

Pass Manchac is situated between Lake Pontchartrain and Lake 
Maurepas, was considered an important position by General But- 
ler. He said that an attack could not be made upon forces at 
New Orleans from the neighborhood of Manchac Pass unless the 
pass was strongly fortified by the enemy. Butler ordered Major 
Strong, his chief of staff, to proceed with two companies to the 
Pass, and on arriving there found that the rebels had fied. 

One day the soldiers at Camp Parapet saw a novel sight. 
A flat or box car came down the railroad from Pass Manchac 
loaded with unusual freight. To the surprise of all it was found 
to be a live young alligator, a present from Lieutenant Jones 
to Captain Spink. This remarkable gift was conveyed to Fort 
Banks across the river, placed in the ditch surrounding the fort, 
where it could be seen disporting itself in the muddy water, and 
enjoying life in civilized society, as a well-regulated alligator 
should do. 



96 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Early in August, 1864, the following order was promulgated to 
the Third Battalion : 

Hd Qrs 8th U. S. C. A. (Hy), 

Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 5, 2864. 
General Orders, No. 31. 

Pursuant to Circular Orders of date from Hd Qrs. of District, Com- 
mandants of Companies will hold their Commands in readiness to move at 
a moment's notice. Two days cooked rations will be kept on hand at all 
times, and at least sixty rounds of ammunition per man. 

By command of 

Lt.-Col. NELSON VIALL, 

Comd'g Regt. 

J. Cary Whiting, Jr., 

Adjutant. 

On the nth of August, 1864, Capt. Henry A. Southwick, act- 
ing assistant inspector-general of the District of Carrolton, in- 
spected the Third Battalion and reports : 

" Eighth United States Colored Artillery (Heavy). Four com- 
panies. Three in the barracks at the Parapet, and one at Fort 
Banks. These companies are well in hand and effective. En- 
gaged in drilling on the heavy guns mounted on the Parapet and 
forts, and in taking care of the works. They show good pro- 
ficiency in the drill. Officers efficient and faithful. Men all en- 
listed at the North, and generally intelligent." 

In the summer of 1864, the several companies of the battalion 
were assigned the following positions to man the guns on the 
fortifications : To Company I was assigned the principal fort ; 
Company M next on the right and in the centre, while Company K 
was still further on the right, and on the extreme right flank in 
the swamp was located the " Star Fort," mounting several guns. 
Company L was stationed across the river at Fort Banks. 

August 26, 1864, the positions of two of the companies of the 
Third Battalion were changed as the accompanying order will 
show : 




CAPT. JOEL METCALF 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 97 

Hn Qrs 3D Batt., 8th 17. S. C A. (Heavy), 
Camt Parapet, La., 

August 26th, 1864. 
Special Orders. 

I. The commanding officer of Co. M will prepare his company to move 
to the right of the Railroad, where it will encamp on the old ground near 
the Lookout. The company will take post there this day. Thev will 
mount guard at the usual time and guard the line of works from the Rail- 
road to the Cavalier Work. 

II. Co. M will man the guns that Co K now have. Co. K, as soon as 
relieved by Co. M, will take the guns left unmanned by the removal of Co. 
M. In all duties, with the exception of Guard-mounting, Co. M will he 
governed by the same orders as heretofore. 

By command of 

Lt.-Col. NELSON VIALL, 

ConuTg Art'y at Parapet. 

Geo. W. II . Ai.lex, 

1st Lt. dcAcfgAdjt. 

A letter from a member of the Third Battalion at Camp Para- 
pet, dated Aug. 25, 1864, says: 

" The command is now in excellent drill, and Lieutenant- 
Colonel Viall is frequently complimented thereupon by his supe- 
rior officers. General Canby did contemplate bringing the whole 
regiment together, but finally decided to allow its present disposi- 
tion to remain. The Third Rhode Island Cavalry is at Parapet, 
and making rapid proficiency in infantry drill. Colonel Sayles 
and Majors Davis and Burt are in good health and doing a good 
work. The fine band of the cavalry is much esteemed. The 
officers of the cavalry with the band gave Lieutenant-Colonel Viall 
and his wife a serenade on the evening of the iSth, which proved a 
very pleasant occasion." 

It is well known that soldiers in the United States service can- 
not consume all the rations issued to them. All surplus rations 
are placed to the credit of each company, and a company fund is 
thereby created. The regimental or battalion council of admin- 
istration audit the accounts of the quartermaster and make an 
equal distribution of the funds accruing from the surplus rations, 
and the proceeds are distributed among the several companies of 

7 



98 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

the regiment. Every two months at least, and whenever it is 
necessary, a company council of administration is convened, con- 
sisting of all of the officers of the company, for the purpose of 
making appropriations from the company fund for the benefit of 
the company. The money thus accruing is generally expended 
in purchasing such necessary supplies (not laid down in Army 
Regulations) for the comfort of the men as the company com- 
mander deems expedient. 

The battalion council of administration having some $400 in 
the treasury it was decided to organize a band. A teacher of 
music was engaged from New Orleans to select the instruments 
and to visit the camp at stated intervals to instruct the men com- 
posing the band. Martial music is admired by all soldiers, and 
by none more so than those of the African race. Lieutenant- 
Colonel Viall says : " Nearly all of the command were candidates 
for the band. Sergeants were willing to be reduced to the ranks 
for the purpose of joining the band. It acquired such proficiency 
that in the course of a few months its services were in great 
demand by private parties and on public occasions in the city of 
New Orleans." 

On the 18th of September, 1864, Lieut.-Col. Nelson Viall being 
in command of the district, the command of the battalion devolved 
upon Capt. Samuel Farnum, who caused the following order to 
be published : 

Headquarters, 3D Batt. iith U. S. C. A. (Heavy), 
Camp Parapet, La., 

Sept. 18, 1864. 
General Orders, A T o. 20. 

Lieut.-Col. Nelson Viall having assumed command of the District of 
Carrolton, I hereby assume command of the 3d Batt. nth U. S. C. A. 
(Heavy), being the senior officer in the Battalion. 

All existing orders will remain in effect until otherwise ordered. 

SAMUEL FARNUM, 
Capt. Co. I, nth U. S. C. A. (Heavy), 

Commanding Battalion. 

The following order will give an idea of the significance of the 
various duties performed by the battalion : 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 99 

Head QUARTERS 30 Batt. U. S. C. A. (Hy), 

Camp Parapet. La., Oct. 21, 1S64. 
Special Orders, JVo. 29. 

Until otherwise ordered the commanding officer of Co. M will furnish 
the guard at the Bridge crossing the Bayou on the Metairie Ridge Road, 
arul be held responsible for its efficiency. In future no parties whatever 
will be allowed to visit the extreme right of the line except those on duty 
at this fortification. No person will be permitted to pass the Bridge with- 
out a pass from Headquarters Carrolton District. 

It is the desire to favor those who live within the lines near Co. M, but 
Hucksters, Wood Choppers, and all traders hanging about will be ejected. 

By command of 

Lt.-Col. NELSON VIALL, 

Comdg. Battalion. 

(Sgd.,) Geo. W. K. Allen, 

/st LI. d- Actg. Adjt. 

A correspondent of the Providence Evening Bulletin, writing 
from Fort Banks, on the 26th of October, 1864, says : 

" The ' Crescent City ' has formed the theme of many a cor- 
respondent of yours, while temporarily sojourning on its ' sacred 
soil,' but lesser localities have received notice, among which is 
the subject of our heading. It has had no great historical pres- 
tige, nor formed the scene of bloody warfare in this modern war; 
it has had no victory to herald, save the exploits of a Grant, or 
Sherman, or Farragut ; it is not the hunting-ground of any 
guerrilla tribe, or likely soon to be a point of attack by any other 
rebel warriors, but it is, for what it is, worthy of notice. 

" Fort Banks lies on the right bank of the Mississippi River, 
some dozen miles from New Orleans, and overlooks a large ex- 
tent of the stream and shore. It is surrounded by several fine 
estates and plantations, once the abode of the southern lords and 
serfs, but now the habitations of former 'chattels,' or of a few re- 
maining whites, professedly loyal families. Vast fields of cane 
encircle the fort, with here and there a cotton field, or what was 
once such ere the worm that never dieth destroyed its fair blossoms. 
Modest Negro huts, the best of quarters for soldiers, domicil 
both officers and men of Company L (Capt. George A. Spink), 



LofC 



100 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Eleventh United States Colored Artillery, and the domestic stock 
of horses, and cows, and mules, and hogs, and hens, and chickens, 
etc. All the conveniences of a first-class home in the capacious 
stables of the fort. No military inspector could complain of any 
want of care, and of accommodation, for man or beast, within the 
enclosures of this little fortress. Each of the men has his 
wooden space of covering, with bunks and bedding after the 
most approved style of military devising, while the officers, in 
their more classic retreat, enjoy the comforts once possessed by 
many less ' chivalrous ' occupants. To the rear the Opelousas 
Railroad stretches afar, but not into rebel territory, while in the 
foreground continually pass our naval vessels and other honest 
craft, from the turreted monitors to the tiny sailboat. Both land 
and river travelers, of less dimensions than a Providence tug- 
boat or an Olneyville omnibus, here report, and if found ' correct ' 
proceed on their way, Apropos commend us to northern craft 
and carriage, rather than to the Mississippi palaces which float, 
and the vehicles that traverse the streams and roads of this 
southern state. 

" But the fort itself, though it cannot boast as ample extent 
or formidable proportions as an 'Adams ' or ' Monroe,' is yet, 
for its size, as neat and trim, and grim and warlike as they. 
Its garrison, too, without the experience of some white artillerists 
are as effective in their practice as need be. In point of drill, 
neatness of person and quarters, and soldierly bearing, they will 
more than equal their paler brothers-in-arms. It would be unjust 
not to mention the officers of the fort, who are zealous and untir- 
ing in their efforts, and for whom we wish a war-lease of the fort 
they have so much improved and adorned. 

" Letters from ' Parapet ' frequently inform us of the condition 
of things there, and no change has occurred of late worthy of 
mention. Lieutenant-Colonel Viall yet commands the district, 
together with the Third Battalion of the Eleventh. Colonel 
Sypher continues president of the Board of Examiners, at New 
Orleans. 

" The weather is getting cooler, the mosquitoes less voracious 
and abundant, and the abominable prayers of wicked rebels are 
as yet unanswered as respects the visit of ' Yellow Jack.' 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). IOI 

" Lieutenant-Colonel Parkhurst, Third Rhode Island Cavalry, 
arrived day before yesterday with ballots for our soldiers. Should 
these prove as effectual in the Union presidential triumph, 
through soldiers' votes, as Union victories through soldiers' bul- 
lets, we may be thankful.'' 

The same correspondent says on the ist of December, 1864: 

" Since last writing you, events of some interest have occurred 
in this vicinity, and in the Fourteenth Regiment United States 
Colored Artillery (Heavy) worthy, perhaps, of record and of 
your readers' notice. First of all — the election which has come 
and gone, and gone most gloriously. The officers of the regi- 
ment, on that day as usual, deposited their votes all unanimous 
for 'Abraham ' and 'Andrew.' There was less enthusiasm at the 
polls than was seen at your different ward rooms ; no challenges 
were made, nor bribes offered ; no pugilistic encounters, nor 
stuffing of ballot-boxes. The day will be memorable, not only in 
our regimental calendar, as it can but be in our national history. 

" On Thanksgiving Day, which was another festive occasion for 
all loyal hearts, we were not permitted to enjoy the family gath- 
ering and social pleasures of good old New England, to offer at 
any public shrine the tribute of our gratitude, nor to feast on the 
table luxuries, which, then, of all other days, are so abundant in 
our Northern homes, but we did endeavor to spend the day as 
best we could, by dispensing with drills, engaging in camp sports, 
and in adding to our several messes some little luxury not pro- 
curable on ordinary days. 

"Then, on All Saints' Day, November ist (though we of 
Northern birth and military associations were but mere observ- 
ers), it was a sight not soon to be forgotten, to witness the 
homage paid the departed from earth, by the residents of the 
Crescent City. At an early hour of the day, in every quarter of 
the town, were seen groups of old and young, wending their way 
to the cemeteries of the dead. Flowers were strewn on every 
grave, the voice of prayer rose from every tomb-stone, and lights 
adorned this scene of holy worship and heavenly communings. 
A beautiful custom, thus to cherish the memory of the departed, 
and on such a day to recall the ' good examples ' of those who 
now ' rest from their labors.' 



102 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

" The Board of Examiners, of which Col. J. Hale Sypher was 
president, having been dissolved, the colonel has been placed in 
command of the Camp of Instruction at Greenville, with his 
headquarters at the same place. Lieutenant-Colonel Viall is now 
on a general court-martial at New Orleans, and Major Fitz- 
water (Third Battalion) is on a military commission at Brashear 
City. Captain Farnum (Company I) commands the battalion ; 
Captain Southwick (Company M) still acts as inspector-general of 
this district ; Captain Spink (Company L) is president of a field 
officers' court, and Captain Livingston (Company K) is absent 
at home on sick leave. 

" Your readers would hardly imagine this the first day of 
winter, were they here to enjoy the mild air of this beautiful 
climate. The weather is as spring-like as in May. Flowers still 
bloom, and blossom fruits, especially oranges, are plentiful, while 
the planters are busy, not only in ' grinding,' but in planting their 
crops. Sportsmen are making ready for their game by burning 
the fields which abound in grass and brushwood. The fires are 
seen from sunrise until midnight, and they have a beautiful effect 
as they illumine the whole sky for miles around. 

" The soldiers of the Third Battalion Eleventh United States 
Colored Artillery (Heavy) are indeed fortunate in the possession 
of such winter quarters as Camp Parapet and Fort Banks. The 
bleak winds and storms which made Dutch Island so uncomfort- 
able last winter do not visit us here. Though we are ready at 
any time to sacrifice our present comforts, and, if necessary, to 
guard the west passage of the Narragansett, or aid our Block 
Island friends against the incursions of the Tallahassee, or protect 
the fisheries at Newport or Jamestown, or even garrison Fort 
Adams, we are quite contented to remain as we are this winter. 

" Rumors are afloat that the paymaster has come. We have 
been exercised in the school of patience, as well as of poverty, 
since April 30th, and therefore devoutly wish the above rumor true." 

A letter from an enlisted man in Company L, dated Dec. 5, 
1864, says : 

" Dear Anglo : I embrace the present opportunity of writing 
a few lines to let you know that there is a Third Battalion exist- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). IO3 

ing in the Eleventh United States Colored Artillery, formerly of 
the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. Our Battalion 
consists of four companies, viz. : I, K, L, and M. Companies L 
and M have been detached from the first two companies, and are 
doing garrison duty, Company M at Fort Star, and Company L 
at Fort Banks, on the right bank of the Mississippi River, nine 
miles above New Orleans. 

" I was taken aback on reading in your issue of the 19th 
ultimo, a letter signed 'Old Hickory,' in which letter the gentle- 
man asserts that Companies L and M are camped in rather un- 
healthy positions. Not being able to speak for Company M, 
I will say for Company L that they have the finest camp and the 
most healthy position between Port Hudson and the mouth of the 
Mississippi. 

" The company has lost only three men by death in five months, 
while the mortality in every other company in the regiment has 
been from five to ten times that number." 

In December Capt. Samuel Farnum being detached from the 
battalion, Capt. George A. Spink assumed command and caused 
the following order to be published : 

Headquarters, 3RD Batt., iith U. S. C. A. (Heavy), 
Camf Parapet, La., Dec. 10th, 1S64. 

General Orders, No. jj. 

Capt. Samuel Farnum having been detached by orders from lid. Qrs. 
Defences of New Orleans. I hereby assume command of the Third Bat- 
talion of the Eleventh United States Colored Artillery (Heavy), being the 
senior officer within its limits. 

All existing orders will remain in force until otherwise ordered. 

(;. A. SPINK, 
Capt. Co. L, nth U. S. C.A. • Ily,. 

Commanding Battalion* 

Again on the 14th of December, 1864, Capt. George A. Spink, 
commanding Third Battalion, issued the following order: "The 
Commanding Officer of Company M, of this command, will detail 
from his command one officer each day for Officer of the Guard. 
This officer will have charge of the guard detailed from Company 



104 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

M, nth U. S. C. A. (Hy), and the guard stationed at the Para- 
pet where the New Orleans and Jackson Railroad passes through 
it. He will visit all the Posts between the Fort and the right of 
the line at least twice during the day, and once after twelve 
o'clock at night, and exact strict compliance with the regulations 
for duties of sentinels. The Headquarters of this officer while 
on duty will be at Company M, nth U. S. C. A. (Hy)." 

The following return made by Adjt. Joseph C. Whiting, Jr., 
will give an idea of the strength of the regiment for the year end- 
ing Dec. 31, 1864 : 

List of Alterations and Casualties in the Eleventh Regiment 
United States Colored Artillery (Heavy), for the Year 
Ending Dec. 31, 1864: 

Strength of Regiment Dec. 31, 1863 : 
Commissioned officers ....... 49 

Enlisted men !>573 

Aggregate 1,622 

Strength of the Regiment Dec. 31, 1S64: 
Commissioned officers ....... 64 

Enlisted men I -393 

Aggregate .... ... 1,457 

Aggregate loss during the year .... 165 

Commissioned Officers. 
Gain : 
By appointment from civil life ..... 10 

By promotion from other regiments .... 23 

Total gain ...,.,.. Z3 

Loss : 

Resigned .......... 5 

Dropped, rejected by Examining Board .... 9 

Dismissed ......... 1 

Died , . . 2 

Promoted 1 

Total loss • 18 

Aggregate gain .... . 15 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 
Enlisted .\fen. 



105 



Gain : 
Recruits — from depot 
Apprehensions 
From desertions — surrenders 



Total irain 



«59 

S 
1 So 



LOSS i 



" under age 




40 
1 




Deaths — Ordinary 




260 


47 


Accidental 




5 




In action 








Sentence General Court-Martial 


1 










j 69 
44 






360 
180 




J. C. WHITING, Jr., 






tst Lt. & Adjt.y 






nth U 


S. C. A. (Heavy). 



While the Third Battalion was stationed at Camp Parapet, 
several of the officers sent for their wives, and the camp was 
enlivened by the presence of the gentler sex. One sad incident, 
however, occurred here which cast a shadow over the otherwise 
pleasant surroundings. Capt. Henry K. Southwick's wife was 
taken seriously ill, and died after a brief illness. The heartfelt 
sympathies of the officers and men were extended to Captain 
Southwick in his severe affliction. This battalion, in common 
with the others, suffered from the malarial diseases incident to 
the climate. Lieutenant-Colonel Viall says: "On the 16th of 
February, 1865, our entire regiment numbered 1,452, over three 
hundred men having died of disease. The daily sound of the 
dead march by the drum corps became so frequent and depress- 
ing that an order was issued to discontinue music at funerals. 



106 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

To Dr. Benoni Carpenter, the surgeon of the regiment, great 
credit was due for his skillful and efficient efforts for the care 
of the sick." 

On the 7th of January, 1865, a general order was issued by 
Lieutenant-Colonel Viall, instituting schools of instruction for the 
non-commissioned officers, and a recitation for the officers. Lieu- 
tenants Martin S. Smith and Charles M. Smith were appointed as 
instructors of the schools for non-commissioned officers. They 
immediately entered upon their duties, and these apt scholars 
made commendable progress in their studies. Lieut. Martin S. 
Smith was assisted in his duties by Quartermaster-Sergt. George 
W. Hamblin. The officers' recitations were confined to studies 
in Army Regulations and Tactics. The authority for this move- 
ment is contained in the following order : 

Headquarters 3D Batt., iith U. S. C. A. (Hy), 

Camp Parapet, La., Jan. 7TH, 1S65. 
General Orders, JVo. 1. 

I. Pursuant to instructions received from Hd. Qrs. nth U. S. C. A. 
(Hy), a school of instruction for non-commissioned officers will be estab- 
lished in this command. 

II. Second Lieut. Martin S. Smith, Co. K, nth U. S. C. A. (Hy), is 
hereby announced as Instructor for Companies I, K, and M, and Second 
Lieut. Charles M. Smith as Instructor for Company L. They will enter 
upon their duties on Monday, Jan. 9, 1865, and be governed in their course 
of instruction by G. O. No. 37, current series of 1864, from Hd. Qjs. nth 
U. S. C. A. (Hy). The Instructor of Companies I, K, and M, will be 
assisted by GL_ M. Sergeant George W. Hamblin. 

III. The object of the school being to educate and improve the non- 
commissioned officers, the Instructors will use great care and patience in 
the duties assigned them. The school will commence on Monday evening, 
Jan. 9, 1865, at 6.30 p. m., continuing until 8.00 p. m., and be held on 
Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings of each week. 

IV. The non-commissioned officers of Companies I, K and M will meet 
in the room in the Barracks fitted up for that purpose. Those of Com- 
pany L will meet at any place designated by the company commander. 
Company commanders will be required to see that all their non-commis- 
sioned officers not on guard or sick attend the school, and as many privates 
as may wish to avail themselves of the privilege. 

V. Hereafter the officers will have a recitation on Saturday evening of 
each week in Army Regulations and Tactics. The officers of the compa- 
nies on this side of the river meeting together, the senior officer present 




CAPT. GEORGE BUCKLIN 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 107 

presiding, and those of Company L by themselves: the hour of meeting 
to be 7.00 p. m., to continue one hour. The officers' school heretofore 
ordered is discontinued. 

By command of 

Lieit.-C')i.. NELSON VIALL, 

Commanding Bat 't 'a 1 'ion ■ 

Geo. W. II Ai.t.EX, 
1st Lieut, d- Act if. Adjt. 

Jan. 16, 1865, Lieutenant-Colonel Viall in a communication to 
Lieut. Warren Ralph commanding Company M, says : 

" Having it now in my power to control lumber and buildings, 
I am anxious that you should use all diligence in moving the same 
to your camp that a barrack may be erected to shelter your men. 
Major Fitzwater will make details from other companies to assist. 
I wish the barrack on the high ground near the signal stand. 
See also that the cistern now at the commissary's building of this 
battalion is moved to your camp after your barrack is completed, 
for holding water running from its roof." 

On the 25th of January, 1865, the Third Battalion made a 
creditable parade in the city of New Orleans. Lieutenant-Colonel 
Viall expressed his appreciation of the event by the following 
congratulatory order: 

Headquarters, 3d Battalion iitii U. S. C. A. (Heavy), 
Camp Parapet, La.. Jan. 25, 1S65. 
General Orders, No. J. 

I. The commanding officer takes pleasure in announcing to his com- 
mand the promptitude with which Company M appeared on the line on the 
morning of the 25th instant. Such strict compliance with orders should 
not pass unnoticed, and cannot fail to win their own reward. 

III. The behavior of the companies dining their stay in the city is 
above praise, as also is the fact that they returned with full ranks, not a 
man being absent without leave. This conduct assures the commanding 
officer that perfect reliance can be placed in such men for any emergency. 

By command of 

NELSON VIALL. 

Lt.-Col. nth U. S. C. A. (Hy). 
Geo. VV. II. Ali.kn. 
1st Lieut. «£'- Act' g Adjt. 



108 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Viall was ever solicitous for the welfare 
and health of the men, as the following order will show : 

Headquarters, 3d Battalion iith U. S. C. A. (Hy), 
Camp Parapet, La., March 2nd, 1S65. 
General Orders-, No. 6. 

Commanding officers of companies in this battalion will at once take 
steps to plant gardens for their commands. 

The prevalence of scorbutic diseases last summer makes it a necessity to 
raise vegetables for the men. 

The Quartermaster Sergeants of companies will have immediate control 
of the gardens, and will be held responsible that they are not neglected. 

Commanders of Companies will apply at Dist. Hd. Qrs. for seed and 
instruction as to the ground, tools, etc. 

By command of 

Lieut.-Col. NELSON VIALL, 
nth U. S. Colored Artillery (Heavy). 

Benj. D. Jones, 

2d Lt. <£■ Actg. Adj't. 



CHAPTER XII 

Description of thf. Mississippi River — Floods and Crevasses — 
Captain Addeman's Account of His Journey through a Por- 
tion of Louisiana which had been Devastated by Flooding 
Waters. 

TO one who has never seen the majestic Mississippi (the 
Father of Waters) it is impossible to adequately compre- 
hend its vastness and grandeur. Its swift current and great 
depth strike the beholder with unusual interest. The country 
on either side of the river is protected with high embankments 
of earth termed levees and resemble long lines of earthworks. 

The necessity of constructing levees or embankments along the 
Mississippi is apparent when it is considered that in high river 
stage in the New Orleans region the water is up to the top of the 
enclosing levee-rim, the flat country behind it lies low, represent- 
ing the bottom of a dish, and as the boat swims along high on 
the flood, one looks down upon the houses and into the upper 
windows. 

One of the dangers which steamboats and other water craft 
plying on this river encounter are the " snags," which are com- 
posed of great trees and tree trunks floating down from the upper 
river and its numerous tributaries, and prove a great annoyance, 
and sometimes an element of destruction to river craft. Fre- 
quently these pests strike a boat and knock a hole in its bottom, 
and it goes down to a watery grave. 

While these floating trees ofttimes are an element of destruc- 
tion, yet they likewise prove a blessing to the dwellers on the 
banks, for this drift which is found floating on the current is 
brought to shore, and the inhabitants utilize it for firewood, 
besides furnishing fuel for the steamboats, thereby yielding a 
source of revenue to these people. We have seen the Bayou 
Plaquemine in spring-time literally choked up with this drift- 
wood, and so closely packed together that one might walk from 
one bank to the other. 



110 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

A great menace to the inhabitants dwelling on the river is the 
" crevasse," which brings death and destruction in its wake. 
This " crevasse " or breach in the levee is made by the great 
force of the water rushing through and inundating the country 
for miles in extent. Houses and buildings of every description 
are torn from their foundations, and swept onward to destruction, 
and the inhabitants are fortunate if they escape with their lives. 

A writer during the war-time makes this statement: "There 
is one shell-fish which seems to be working in the way of Provi- 
dence and the Union so zealously that he deserves a passing 
notice. The fiddler resembles a crab, though he is much smaller. 
He seems to be impressed with the fact that men have no right 
to limit the river by means of levees to the narrow space between 
its banks ; and further that it can help the Federals in overcom- 
ing the rebels who live near it. Thus impressed, it works stead- 
ily, night and day, boring holes through the levee. I have seen 
a levee completely honeycombed by these creatures. They are 
to be counted by millions, and will dig through an earthwork ten, 
and even fifteen feet in thickness. Half the disasters along the 
river are to be attributed to these little creatures." 

Captain Addeman's description of a journey through a portion 
of Louisiana that had been devastated by flooding waters will 
confirm these statements. He says : 

" Before the waters had subsided I was ordered by Brig.-Gen. 
R. A. Cameron, commanding the district of La Fourche, in which 
we were located, to report at his headquarters in Brashear City, 
for duty on his staff. Taking a steamer to New Orleans and 
then the train at Algiers, which is opposite New Orleans, I pro- 
ceeded very comfortably to a place called Terrebone, where steam 
travel came to a sudden stop. A hand-car for a mile or two fur- 
nished transportation, and then we found the railroad completely 
washed away by the flood above named. The general's quarter- 
master and myself secured a boat, and, with a crew of colored 
soldiers, we rowed some twelve miles to a place called Tigerville, 
on the Alligator bayou. Our route lay over the bed of the rail- 
road, the track washed to one side of the cut, and a stream of 
water several feet deep on top of the bed. The road had been 
built through what seemed, most of the way, a primeval wilder- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). Ill 

ness. The rank growth which skirted both sides of the stream, 
with no sound to break the silence, save the measured stroke of 
the oars, for even the birds which occasionally flitted across our 
path were songless, though of brilliant plumage ; the sight of an 
occasional moccasin or copperhead snake coiled on the stump of 
a tree, and not infrequently of an alligator sunning himself on a 
log, were features of a situation that must be seen to be fully real- 
ized. The few small settlements through which we passed were 
drowned out. Some of the houses were nearly under water, and 
large quantities of debris were afloat on the slowly moving cur- 
rent. Through the long, weary hours of our boat ride, the sun 
poured its rays upon us with unmitigated fervor. Reaching 
Tigerville we found an ugly little stern-wheeled boat tied up in 
what had been one of the thoroughfares of the village, and which 
the quartermaster at once ordered to take us to Brashear City. 
The captain of the craft incidentally remarked that his boiler was 
in bad shape, and might blow up at any time. The quartermas- 
ter was willing, however, to take the risk, and, getting up steam, 
we were soon on our way. But with the remark of the captain in 
my mind, as I looked at the stagnant bayou with its waters black 
as ink, and gazed off upon the interminable swamps on either 
side, and thought of the monsters from which it took its name, I 
concluded that the extreme bow would be a little the safest place, 
and, taking passage on an empty water cask I found there, I 
lighted my pipe, and tried to feel as tranquil as the circumstances 
above suggested would permit. Through the winding bayous we 
pursued our way, and sometime after dusk we safely reached 
Brashear City, or that portion of it which was visible above the 
waste of waters. Speaking of the bayous, it would be difficult to 
give a clear conception of their peculiarities. Equally strange 
are the people who inhabit these solitudes. 

" Time would not permit me to describe the ' Cajans ' — cor- 
ruption of 'Acadians,' descendants of the exiles who early settled 
the territory of Louisiana, but who have been driven from their 
first places of settlement by those more ambitious and unscrupu- 
lous. Living in isolated communities, with their artless and 
unambitious characteristics, their simplicity and exclusiveness, 
they would furnish material for an elaborate paper." 



CHAPTER XIII 

Officers' Recitation at Plaquemine — Issuing of Rations to Des- 
titute Persons by the United States Government — Schools 
Organized for the Enlisted Men. 

THE 2d of January, 1865, was observed in the Second Bat- 
talion as a general holiday, New Year's having fallen on 
Sunday, the day previous. Considerable amusement was afforded 
among the men in foot races, sack races, chasing a greased pig, 
and other sports. 

On the 3d of January, the battalion was inspected by Maj. 
Edmund C. Burt, of the Third Rhode Island Cavalry, inspector 
of La Fourche District. 

By a circular issued from Battalion Headquarters, January 
14th, it was announced that an Officers' Recitation would be held 
at seven o'clock, Wednesday evening, January 18th, at the quar- 
ters of Captain Addeman. The meeting was held on that date, 
and the lesson for the evening consisted of pages 5 to 37, inclu- 
sive, of Casey's Infantry Tactics, and of Articles I. to X., inclusive, 
of Revised Army Regulations. 

January 21st, telegrams from New Orleans and Thibodeaux 
reported that a body of the enemy was approaching in the direc- 
tion of Plaquemine, to make an attack on the place. Precaution- 
ary measures were taken for its defence. A scout was sent 
towards Grand River, who discovered nothing. 

On the 30th of January an Officers' Recitation was held. 
Quite a pleasant discussion on military topics in tactics and reg- 
ulations. It may be well in this connection to speak of the valu- 
able services rendered by Lieut, Lester S. Hill in being selected 
to drill several detachments of men of the battalion in light artil- 
lery drill, he being familiar with that branch of the service, having 
had previous good training and a creditable record in Battery E, 
First Rhode Island Light Artillery. 



FOURTEENTH R. I. HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). II3 

On the 4th of February it was reported that Captain Rice, of 
the Thirty-first Massachusetts Infantry (mounted), who with his 
company was scouting near Indian Village, was attacked by a 
party of Confederates, consisting of four independent companies, 
who had been roaming around there, and who had evidently ex- 
pected to surprise Captain Rice, But they reckoned without 
their host. Some firing ensued, and the Confederates fled. The 
loss in this affair was one killed on the Union side, and one 
wounded man was brought inside our lines. 

On the evening of the 23d of February the non-commissioned 
officers of the battalion held a ball in the town. 

On the 28th the " long roll" was sounded, and the several com- 
panies of the battalion assembled in their company streets. Noth- 
ing alarming resulted, however. It was said to have been the 
forty-ninth " long roll " since the battalion had occupied Plaque- 
mine. 

It can never be said that during the War of the Rebellion the 
United States government ever allowed any loyal persons resid- 
ing within the Union lines to suffer for the want of food. 

The following order issued from Post headquarters will give 
an idea how well this was exemplified in Plaquemine : 

IId.-Qrs. Post of Plaquemine, 

Plaquemine, La., Mar. 21, 1865. 
Special Orders, A r o. 57. 

[Extract.] 

I. A Board to consist of the following named officers : 

Capt. Charles C. Cragin, nth U. S. Col. A. (Hy.) 
ist. Lieut. Sigourney B. Goffe, " " 

1st. Lieut. William H. Chenery, " " 

are hereby appointed to convene at Plaquemine, La., March 21, 1S65, at II 
o'clock A. m., or as soon thereafter as practicable, to examine and report 
upon the condition of destitute persons at this Post, drawing rations from 
the government. The Board will report on each case separately, stating 
(in tbe case of families) the number of rations absolutely necessary, 
whether the applicant is loyal and worthy, and whether proper endeavors 
have been made for his support. 

By order of 

Col. J. HALE SYPHER, 
[Signed,] J. Cary Whiting, Jr., 

ist Lt. 4k Post Adjutant. 



114 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

That the government made no discrimination between white or 
colored applicants (only requiring them to be loyal) we quote two 
cases reported upon by the above named board : 

" I. Mr. Andrew Castina (white) has a wife and five children, 
three of whom are under ten years of age. He owns no property. 
He is a carpenter by trade, but cannot procure sufficient work to 
support his family. He rents the house in which he lives. Has 
taken the oath of allegiance. States that his family have not had 
meat for three months. The Board recommend that five rations be 
issued to Mr. Andrew Castina. 

" Mrs. Amy Brooks (colored). Is a widow with six children, 
five of whom are in the Union army, and one in Gross Tete. She 
is forty-five years of age ; is in poor health. Can sew a little, 
but cannot wash. Has no property. The Board recommend 
that one ration be issued to Mrs. Brooks." 

Capt. Charles C. Cragin, the president of this Board, gave 
much of his time and energies to the furtherance of this worthy 
object. 

Captain Addeman referring to schools for the enlisted men 
says : " While some of them were comparatively well educated, 
and were very serviceable in various kinds of clerical work, 
a large proportion of them were destitute of the most rudiment- 
ary knowledge. Through the Christian Commission, of which 
Ex-Mayor J. V. C. Smith, of Boston, was, in our department, 
the efficient agent, we were amply supplied with various kinds 
of books and utensils, embracing primers, arithmetics, slates, 
and pencils, besides a liberal allowance of reading matter. 
Our men were eager recipients of these and made good use of 
them. We tried to stimulate their pride in every way possible, 
and the great majority of them learned to sign their names to our 
rolls, instead of making their mark. I had some pride in having 
my rolls signed by the men themselves, but I remember one of 
my men, however, whom I ineffectually ordered to do this. He 
admitted to me that he could write, but in consequence of some 
trouble he had in former years got into by the use of the pen, he 
had made a vow never to write again, or something to that effect. 
My impression is that it was some kind of forgery he was engaged 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I I 5 

in. It is possible he may have been an unfortunate indorser, if 
so, his determination would not seem so strange. 

"At the same time, we were trying to make a permanent im- 
provement in the way above indicated, we were troubled by diffi- 
culties which were incident to army life at all times. Liquor, of 
course, would make trouble for us, and I think I never knew of 
any stimulant more demoralizing in its way, than Louisiana rum. 
This fiery fluid would arouse all the furies in a man when it had 
him under its control. Gambling was another vice against which 
we labored with more or less success. Sometimes, after taps, 
I would make a raid on some of the men who were having a quiet 
little game. When winter came, we had replaced our worn out 
tents with shanties built from the materials of confiscated houses. 
These would be darkened, and in voices hushed to the lowest 
whisper, the men would indulge in their favorite pastime. On 
one occasion I remember that suddenly forcing the door open, I 
dropped, most unexpectedly to them, on a small party of gam- 
blers. As I scooped in the cards and the stakes, one of them 
remarked that it was no use to play against the captain, for he 
got high, low, jack, and the game." 



CHAPTER XIV 

Major Comstock Assumes Command of Third Battalion — Major 
Fitzwater Transferred to the First Battalion and Ordered 
to Brashear City — Great Rejoicing Over Lee's Surrender 
at Appomattox — The Confederate Forces under Gen. Kirby 
Smith West of the Mississippi Still Keep Up a Show of 
Resistance — News of the Assassination of President Lin- 
coln — Expressions of Sorrow — Escape of the Rebel Ram 
"Webb" from Red River — Passes by All Our Forces on the 
Mississippi until Disabled a Few Miles Above Fort St 
Philip, when She was Deserted and Blown Up. 

IN the month of March, 1865, Maj.-Gen. Edward R. S. Canby, 
commanding the Military Division of West Mississippi, with 
a force consisting of the Thirteenth Corps, under Gen. Gordon 
Granger ; the Sixteenth Corps, under Gen. A. J. Smith, and a 
division of the colored troops, which advanced from Pensacola, 
under General Steele, commenced a movement against Mobile 
and the interior of Alabama. The Thirteenth and Sixteenth 
Corps invested Spanish Fort on the 27 th of March, the division 
of General Steele cut the railroad leading from Texas to Mont- 
gomery, effected a junction with them, and partially invested Fort 
Blakely. After a severe struggle a portion of Spanish Fort was 
taken on the 8th of April, and the enemy evacuated the fort 
during the night. On the 9th, Fort Blakely was carried by 
assault. On the nth of March the city of Mobile was evacuated 
and taken possession of by our forces on the morning of the 12th. 

In these brilliant movements it was not the privilege of our 
regiment to participate, as General Sherman said that he could 
not spare either of the battalions from the important posts where 
they were stationed, and we were forced to be content and remain 
in the positions assigned us, and find consolation in the fact that 
the post of duty is also the post of honor. 

On the 20th of March, Maj. Joseph J. Comstock assumed 
command of the Third Battalion, Major Andrew J. Fitzwater 
having been transferred to the First. 




CAPT. GEORGE W COEE 



FOURTEENTH R. I. HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I 1 7 

When the news of the surrender of Lee's army to General 
Grant reached us in April, a great relief was experienced and joy 
held high carnival in every Union camp. The writer recalls with 
distinctness the scenes which transpired in Plaquemine on that 
occasion. We all felt that the war was virtually ended, and the 
actions of the officers and men of our battalion resembled the 
antics of boys just let loose from school, rather than of grown-up 
men. Even the sutler was called upon to contribute to the general 
rejoicing. 1 His empty barrels and boxes were brought out, and a 
big bonfire was built on the parade ground, and everything done 
to give vent to our feelings of gladness. 

The main armies of the Confederacy east of the Mississippi 
having surrendered to the Union forces or been disbanded, the 
rebel forces in Texas and Southern Arkansas, under Gen. Kirby 
Smith, still maintained a show of resistance. A force sufficient 
to overcome the Confederates in this direction was immediately 
put in motion for Texas, and Maj.-Gen. Philip H. Sheridan, who 
had so distinguished himself in the Army of the Potomac, was 
designated for its immediate command. 

Closely following upon the glorious announcement of the sur- 
render of Lee's army came the sad intelligence of the assassina- 
tion of our beloved President, Abraham Lincoln. It seemed 
incredible that this great and good man should have an enemy 
upon the face of the earth. When the news of this foul crime 
reached us in the Department of the Gulf a feeling of profound 
sorrow and indignation pervaded every loyal heart. 

Gen. Thomas W. Sherman, commanding the Southern Division 
of Louisiana, caused the following order to be issued : 

Headquarters So. Div. of La., 

New Orleans, Apr. 19th, 1865. 
Gen. Orders, No. iS. 

In consequence of the astounding and heart-rending intelligence just re- 
ceived from the North, all duties in this command will he suspended for 
the day, except the necessary guard duties, and what may have been or- 
dered by higher authority. 



1 We had for a long time as clerk for our sutler in the Second Battalion an old soldier, 
Fred A. Arnold, who had an honorable record for ser.-icc in the Second Rhode Island 
Infantry, having been wounded in the leg in front of Richmond, June .25, iSoj, in the 
Peninsular Campaign, and was discharged in consequence of his wounds. 



Il8 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

All flags will be immediately set at half-mast for the day. 

The Provost Marshal of the Parish of Orleans will have all bells in the 
city of New Orleans tolled for one hour, commencing at 12 o'clock m., and 
for one hour commencing an hour before sun-down. 

All public offices within this command will be at once appropriately 
draped in mourning. 

By command of 

Brigadier-General SHERMAN. 

P. J. Maloney, 
Bvt. Lieut, and Aide-de-Camfi, 

A. A. A. General. 

To indicate the expressions of sorrow manifested by the en- 
listed men on the death of the President, we append the following 
communication of a soldier in the Third Battalion to the Provi- 
dence Evening Bulletin, April 12, 1865 : 

" Mr. Editor: The painful calamity that has fallen upon our 
nation I can hardly realize, but the facts are so plain that it is in 
vain to doubt. An awful deed has been committed. The great 
man of this nation now sleeps in the silent tomb, not to rise until 
the dead shall be summoned to appear at the great bar to give an 
account of their stewardship. We have a hope that he sleeps in 
the arms of Jesus, and his soul, thrice happy, is with the angels 
and archangels and just men made perfect, singing and praising 
Him who governs the destinies of all men. Our best national 
friend has gone but a step before us, but ever memorable will be 
his name in the hearts of the loyal millions. His course, from 
the time of his installation, has been marked with wisdom and 
justice. His manner has been unfaltering. His feelings could 
be touched by all classes of the nation, from the highest to the 
lowest. None were fearful to approach His Excellency, and jus- 
tice was always meted out as the circumstances of the case re- 
quired. 

" The news fell upon our company like a thunderbolt, the cap- 
tain being the first to hear it. You would have thought he had 
lost some of his near kin. The impression made upon the 
men would have astonished any one used to seeing them in their 
gayer moods. Heaviness of heart seized them all. Groups dis- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I 19 

cussed the unlikeliness of the affair, hoping that some kind paper 
would bring a contradiction. But none came ; instead of which, 
evidence of the truthfulness of the report thickened. We deplore 
greatly his loss. The attitude that he has placed us in causes us 
to feel as did the children of Israel when they had passed through 
the Red Sea dry shod, and were freed from the hands of Pharaoh 
and his pursuing host. It was our desire that he should have 
witnessed the end of the beginning, but, as Moses, he viewed, but 
was not permitted by Divine Providence to reach the end of the 
beginning which began to loom up with so much splendor and 
brilliancy. The rays of the sun of Freedom began to dispel 
every opposition. His earthly career has ended. May his suc- 
cessor be borne up by our prayers. May there be no retrograde 
movement, but may the same wisdom, and justice, kindness and 
condescension characterize his course in this hour of trial. 

" I hope that it is in contemplation to do something to his last- 
ing memory. I know that it is in your mind, and you will, 
through the aid of friends and committees, do all that can be 
done to testify to our respect for the illustrious dead. 

" May he rest in peace." 

In the latter part of April an exciting episode occurred on the 
Mississippi, which may be said to have been one of the closing 
scenes in the tragic drama of our civil war. The famous rebel 
ram Webb was stationed in the Red River, and sought to escape 
ultimate capture by the Union fleet by running out on the night of 
April 2 1 st, passing all the Union gunboats and ironclads in the 
Mississippi, going at the rate of fifteen miles an hour. On the 
way down she attempted to destroy the steamer Saratoga, but 
missed her. This celebrated ram had already won notoriety by 
her depredations in the Mississippi and Reo) Rivers. On the 
24th of February, 1863, in conjunction with the Confederate gun- 
boat Quee/i of the West, and other steamers, they attacked and 
sunk the Union gunboat Indianola. The latter boat was superior 
to all the others in armament, and probably would have destroyed 
them or driven them away, but for her incumbrance, having 
barges of coal in tow, and consequently could make but little 
speed against the rapid current of the river. She fought them for 



120 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

an hour and a half, but, in the dark, was struck seven or eight 
times by the ram and other vessels, and was finally disabled. 

The Webb was now about to close her career as a Cruiser, and 
endeavored, as has been stated, to pass down and out of the river 
to the Gulf and free herself from all her pursuers. She passed 
by the camp of the Second Battalion at Plaquemine in the night 
time, and succeeded in passing New Orleans before her identity 
was discovered. 

We will let Lieut. George W. H. Allen of the Third Battalion 
give his version of the passage of the ram by Fort Parapet : 

"On the 24th of April, 1865, the monotony of camp life was 
broken by the receipt of a telegram from Headquarters Defences 
of New Orleans, the substance of which was as follows : ' It is 
reported that the rebel ram Webb has escaped from Red River, 
and is coming towards New Orleans. Look out for her and sink 
her.' 

"The commanding officer of the battalion at Fort Parapet was 
ordered to have the guns manned and to open fire upon the ram 
if she made her appearance. With our antiquated guns in the 
river battery, our chances of sinking her were not very brilliant ; 
but preparations were made to give her as hot a reception as cir- 
cumstances would permit. After a long and tedious waiting, a 
steamer was sighted coming down the river. Glasses were brought 
to bear upon her and revealed the fact that she had the ' Stars 
and Stripes ' at half-mast, and all her officers and crew visible 
wore the United States naval uniform. To all appearances, she 
was a dispatch boat, and the officers of the battalion, grouped 
upon the parapet of the river battery, saw her pass the fort with- 
out suspecting the nature of the craft. 

"After the vessel had disappeared around a point above Car- 
rollton, a horseman was seen coming down the river road (which 
ran through the fort), apparently riding for dear life. As he 
entered the sally-port we saw it was a major of cavalry covered 
with dust, and shouting 'Stop her! That is the ram Webb just 
gone down,' and away he flew towards Carrollton. The following 
message was immediately telegraphed to General Sherman's 
headquarters : 'A vessel said to be the rebel ram Webb has just 
passed the Parapet, and must be near New Orleans.' 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 121 

"Slowly and sadly we resumed our duties, borne down by the 
thought that glory had been within our reach and we had failed 
to grasp it. If she had stopped at the fort and had given us the 
information that she was the ram Webb, and let us blow her out 
of the water, we should have been content, but we had the con- 
solation that inasmuch as she had passed peacefully by and did 
not blow us to pieces, the honors were about equally divided 
between us. Besides, we could afford to banter our brothers of 
the navy, for some hours after, a United States gunboat anchored 
off the fort, and inquired if we had seen a stray ram around there 
that day." 

A New Orleans paper in narrating this incident says : 

"About half-past twelve o'clock to-day the people were electri- 
fied by the appearance in the river of the steam tug Webb, from 
Red River, passing by the city under the fire of our war vessels. 
She carried six heavy guns, and bore the American flag at half- 
mast. 

"As she was passing out of sight at the bend below, she hauled 
down the American flag and hoisted the rebel colors, which were 
clearly distinguished by the throng of spectators upon the levee. 

" We have few additional particulars of this most daring affair, 
but we learn that the gunboat Alliance has gone in pursuit of the 
daring rebel. 

"Other vessels are getting up steam, probably for the purpose 
of joining in the pursuit. If the wires are not cut between here 
and Fort Jackson, we hope that information will be communi- 
cated to that fort in season to put a stop to the further progress 
of the Webb. The Webb is well remembered at the levee as a 
very fast tug in use at New Orleans before the war. She is 
painted white, and her decks and boilers are protected by bales 
of cotton. 

" Her act in running such a gauntlet seems almost too daring 
for belief, but there is every reason to accept it as a fact. 

" It was probably conceived by some daring fellows who hoped 
to gain a sort of immortality by the desperate deed, now that all 
else is lost. The telegraph to Baton Rouge is down, and has 
been for several hours, which is probably a circumstance con- 



122 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

nected with the affair. It is to be feared that a similar precau- 
tion has been taken by confederates of these fellows in regard to 
the telegraph at Fort Jackson. 

"Additional — Two shots were seen to take effect forward of 
her wheel-house. When she passed Slaughter-House Point she 
was, with the aid of pine knots and a rapid current, going at the 
rate of twenty miles per hour, 

"Still later — The wires are working only to within six miles of 
Fort Jackson." 

We afterwards learned that the condensers of the Webb be- 
came disabled when she had reached a point a few miles above 
Fort St. Philip, and she was deserted and blown up. 

Captain Reed of the Webb and twenty-six of his crew made 
their escape to the shore, but were subsequently captured by the 
Tenth Illinois Cavalry and brought to New Orleans. As far as 
known the ram had inflicted no damage save the cutting of the 
telegraph line. 

It should be stated here that Capt. George A. Spink, com- 
manding Fort Banks, received the following telegram from General 
Sherman : " Headquarters, Defences of New Orleans, April 24, 
1865, 9 a. m. : Commanding Officer at Fort Banks : It is 
reported at these headquarters that the rebel ram Webb is proceed- 
ing down the river. You will look out for her and destroy her." 

The First Battalion was also warned to be on the look out for 
her, but had no occasion, as she had already been deserted before 
reaching that point. 

Lieut.-Col. Charles H. Parkhurst, of the Third Rhode Island 
Cavalry, says of this affair : " While stationed at a post called 
' The Hermitage,' on the east bank of the Mississippi, opposite 
Donaldsonville, word came to me early one morning from a good 
friend to our cause, that the telegraphic line on the east side of 
the river had been cut about a mile below my farthest outpost, by 
the crew of a boat which had landed from a steamer that had 
come down the river just before daylight. It was well known 
that the Confederates had in the Red River an exceedingly fast 
and powerful ram or gunboat, known as the Webb. My inform- 
ant was fully satisfied that the steamer that had passed down and 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I 23 

whose boat's orew had cut the wires was this Confederate mm. 
I at once sent a messenger across the river to Colonel Fiske, 
commanding at Donaldsonville, and requested him to send the 
information by his telegraphic line to General Sherman. Colonel 
Fiske telegraphed, ' Colonel Parkhurst reports that the rebel ram 
Webb has passed Donaldsonville, cutting the wires on the east 
bank.' The reply Colonel Fiske received was : ' Tell Colonel 
Parkhurst we think here his rebel ram is a sheep. By order of 
General Sherman.' The ram reached New Orleans unmolested, 
passing the city at full speed, and, when a short distance below 
the Custom House, displayed the Confederate flag and com- 
menced firing. Every one then knew the difference between the 
rebel ram and the sheep for whose origin I was to be responsible. 
It was generally understood, after this telegram, that sheep was 
not a favorite subject of discussion at General Sherman's head- 
quarters. Of course the general never personally authorized the, 
at the time, somewhat famous sheep dispatch, and probably may 
never have known of it, but he was blamed, after the results 
were known, for allowing such a dispatch to go from his head- 
quarters.'' 

As the Third Rhode Island Cavalry was the only organization 
besides our own from Rhode Island that served with us in the 
Department of the Gulf, it will, perhaps, not be out of place at 
this time to make brief mention of its services. First, we ought 
to say that the Second Rhode Island Cavalry, composed of two 
squadrons, arrived in the Department of the Gulf March 13, 
1863. It took part in the Teche expedition, and participated in 
the battles of Bisland and Franklin. It constituted a part of the 
force sent out to protect a forage train between Clinton and Jack- 
son, La. They were attacked by the Confederates with a heavy 
cavalry force and two pieces of artillery. In this affair the Second 
Cavalry lost two men taken prisoners. Lieut. Edwin C. Pomroy 
and two privates were wounded, the former severely. In conse- 
quence of hard service on picket duty and in skirmishes, it had 
lost many men. Severe marches and an unhealthy climate also 
aided to diminish its numbers. It having been reduced below 
the minimum allowed, it was consolidated with the First Lou- 



124 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

isiana Cavalry. The field and staff officers resigned, and were 
honorably discharged. 

The union of this regiment with the First Louisiana caused 
great dissatisfaction. No good resulted from this union, and 
Governor Smith, appreciating the feelings of the men, communi- 
cated with the War Department on the subject, and succeeded in 
obtaining an order for the men to be transferred to the Third 
Rhode Island Cavalry upon their arrival in the Department of the 
Gulf. 

The First Battalion of the Third Rhode Island Cavalry, under 
command of Maj. George R. Davis, arrived in New Orleans Jan. 
14, 1864, and received an addition of two companies from the 
First Louisiana Cavalry, formerly the Second Rhode Island Cav- 
alry. It was assigned to the Fifth Cavalry Brigade, and partici- 
pated in the battle of Pleasant Hill, La., in April, losing three 
men wounded and left on the field, and two missing. 

The regiment arrived at Alexandria April 25th. While here 
they were joined by Lieutenant-Colonel Parkhurst with three 
companies. The regiment served as the advanced picket on the 
south side of the town, and was almost daily engaged with the 
enemy. May 1st, in a skirmish near Governor Morris's planta- 
tion, one man was killed and five wounded. From Alexandria to 
Simmesport the regiment served as the rear guard nearly all the 
time. It took part in the battles of Marksville Plain and Yellow 
Bayou, suffering a small loss in wounded and prisoners. Passing 
through Morganza, Plaquemine, and Donaldsonville, it reached 
Fort Banks on the 3d of June, 1864. Another detachment, com- 
posed of Companies G and H, reported for duty in the field, May 
8th, and was joined by the regiment at Greenville, June 10, 1864. 
As the department had been drained of cavalry horses, many 
having died for want of sufficient food on the exhaustive cam- 
paign just closed, an order was issued to report to the general 
commanding the Defences of New Orleans for temporary service 
as infantry. 

While at Camp Parapet, August 1st, Col. Willard Sayles 
arrived with his staff, Company M, and the regimental band. 
In consequence of favorable inspection reports in reference to 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 125 

the efficiency and discipline of the command, six companies were 
mounted and sent to the La Fourche District September 27th, 
and the rest of the regiment followed immediately afterwards, 
one detachment being stationed at Donaldsonville, under Major 
Davis, who was active in search of guerrillas, and another at 
Napoleonville with the headquarters of the regiment. Detach- 
ments were also stationed at different periods at Thibodeaux, 
Camp Parapet, Plaquemine, Houma, Hermitage Plantation, on 
the Mississippi River, and other places in Louisiana. The field 
of duty occupied by the regiment was the entire State. It 
performed arduous service en picket duty, and as couriers be- 
tween the different posts. Frequent and rapid marches among 
the swamps and bayous of Louisiana told severely on men and 
horses, and the part this regiment performed in the war for the 
Union will ever reflect credit upon the State from which they 
came. 

In the latter part of April, 1865, the First Battalion was ordered 
to Brashear City. 

Lieut. Charles L. Stafford was stationed with a detachment of 
twelve men on the Bayou Rammas about six miles from Brashear 
City, and remained there but a short time, having been promoted 
to first lieutenant and assigned to Company I, of the Third Bat- 
talion. 

Brashear City (now Morgan City) is a post village and port of 
entry of St, Mary's Parish, La., and is situated on the east bank 
of the navigable Atchafalaya Bayou, twenty miles from its entrance 
into the Gulf of Mexico, and on Morgan's Louisiana and Texas 
Railroad, and eighty miles from New Orleans. It had been the 
theatre of much bushwhacking and savage raids by the enemy. 
It was via I5rashear and the Teche country that Banks had led 
his army in the campaign of 1863 to Alexandria and Simmesport ; 
and it was from this same place that he started on his Red River 
expedition. 

During the investment and siege of Port Hudson, in June, 1863, 
Brashear City was attacked in force by troops estimated at over 
six thousand, under the command of Generals Taylor, Green, 
and Mouton. 



126 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

For the surprise and capture of the place the enemy had col- 
lected skiffs and boats of all sorts near the mouth of the Teche. 
At nightfall, on the 2 2d of June, the enemy set out, and by day- 
light the next morning his whole party had safely landed in the 
rear of the defences of Brashear, while another force stood on the 
western bank of Berwick Bay, ostensibly attracting the unsus- 
pecting garrison, and three more regiments were in waiting on 
Gibbon's Island, ready to embark in boats for the support of the 
movement. To oppose this force there were five companies of 
Union infantry, making in all less than four hundred effectives, 
and about three hundred convalescents left behind by nearly 
thirty regiments. 

Maj. Robert C. Anthony, of the Second Rhode Island Cavalry, 
who had been taken sick at Alexandria, La., was sent to the 
hospital in Brashear City, for the recovery of his health. Three 
days before the assault, Lieut.-Col. Albert Stickney, commanding 
the post, left for La Fourche Landing. Two outranking convales- 
cent officers were residing at the hospital, to one of whom the 
vacated command belonged, but neither of them were disposed 
to accept. That duty, therefore, devolved on Major Anthony, who 
took every precaution possible to defend the place. After a stub- 
born resistance for several hours against overwhelming numbers 
of the enemy, the Union forces were overpowered and compelled 
to surrender. 

As the First and Second Battalions were now included within 
the District of La Fourche, it may be of interest to give a descrip- 
tion of it at this time. 

Capt. Henry K. Southwick says : " It was the ' frontier ' district 
of the ' Defences of New Orleans,' and was situated west of the 
Mississippi River. It comprised Plaquemine and Donaldsonville 
on the Mississippi and all the posts on Bayou La Fourche, and 
then extended to Houma on the south. All the stations on the 
New Orleans and Opelousas Railroad, from Raceland to Brashear 
City, were included in the district. Headquarters were estab- 
lished at Thibodeaux, a village of one thousand people. 

" May 20th, the forces present were 3,630, including the First 
and Second Battalions Eleventh United States Colored Artillery 




CAPT. JOSHUA M. ADDEMAN 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 1 2/ 

(Heavy), Col. J. Hale Sypher commanding, with nine hundred 
and thirty-six officers and men. 

"June 19th, the force was 2,575 officers and men 'present,' 
and the war having ended, a peaceful occupation was made of 
the Teche country, including the important towns of New Iberia, 
St. Martinsville, Vermillionville, and Opelousas, and all that 
region was added to the district and troops stationed there. 

"July 15th, La Fourche District was discontinued as a separate 
command, and all its post commanders thereafter reported direct 
to Headquarters Southern District of Louisiana, the new title for 
' Defences of New Orleans.' All staff officers were ordered 
back to their regiments except B. B. Campbell, Acting Assistant 
Adjutant-General, and Capt. Henry K. Southwick, Acting Assist- 
ant Inspector-General, who were ordered to report in person for 
duty at district headquarters, New Orleans. 

"Eastern District of Louisiana, the new name given to the old 
' Defences of New Orleans,' included all of the State of Louis- 
iana south of the Mississippi line, and all south of Avoyelles and 
Rapides Parishes. Also Ship Island, notably as the place where 
General Butler disembarked his troops in 1862, prior to the cap- 
ture of New Orleans. Ship Island was a military prison, garri- 
soned by one regiment of United States Colored Infantry. It 
was a barren sand waste, of dazzling whiteness in the sunshine. 

" The posts reporting direct to district headquarters comprised 
the following : Forts Jackson and St. Philip, Fort Livingstone, 
Fort Wood, Forts Macomb and Riggolettes, Fort Twiggs, Ship 
Island, Camp Parapet, Algiers, Thibodeaux (which had numerous 
sub-stations), Brashear City, New Iberia, St. Martins, Opelousas, 
Vermillionville, Washington, Morganza, Port Hudson, Bayou 
Sara and Clinton, Baton Rouge, Plaquemine (Iberville Parish), 
Donaldsonville, New Orleans (city), and vicinity. 

" The total number of troops at all these points was about 
12,000 effective, of which number more than 1,300 were lost by 
muster out of the Eleventh United States Colored Artillery 
(Heavy). 

"At the time the Districts of Carrollton and La Fourche existed, 
there was also the ' District of Baton Rouge and Port Hudson,' 
which was also abolished at same time as La Fourche." 



CHAPTER XV 

Capt. Henry K. Southwick Reports Condition of Affairs at 
Brashear City in Consequence of Floods — Captain South- 
wick Inspects Second Battalion at Plaqjjemine — Surrender 
of Gen. Kirby Smith's Army — Maj.-Gen. Philip H. Sheridan 
Assumes Command of the Military Division of West Mis- 
sissippi — Second Battalion Ordered to Donaldsonville — 
Account of the Attack on Donaldsonville by the Confed- 
erates in 1S63 — Celebration of the National Anniversary of 
American Independence — Death of Lieut. James P. Brown — 
Account of the Surrender of Capt. Bailey Peyton Vinson 
and His Company to a Force under Lieut. Charles H. Chace 
of the First Battalion — Events Transpiring in the Third 
Battalion. 

IN May, 1865, when the country around Brashear City was 
overflowed, Capt. Henry K. Southwick, Acting Assistant 
Inspector-General for the District of La Fourche, reports the 
condition of affairs at that place as follows : 

" The water was still rising along the New Orleans, Opelousas 
and Great Western Railroad when I passed over it on the even- 
ing of the 8th instant. The village of Brashear was entirely 
flooded and the water was threatening the next day to cover the 
lower floors of the houses (which are nearly all on one level). 
The officers' quarters of the Ninety-eighth United States Colored 
Infantry, now occupied by Companies A, B and D of the Eleventh 
U. S. C. A. (Heavy) and those of the other troops were still dry 
when I left, except that of the Twenty-fifth New York Battery. 
At Fort Buchanan, garrisoned by Company C, Eleventh United 
States Colored Artillery (Heavy), the water in the ditch is on a 
level with that in the river, while on the land side water from the 
swamps was pouring over into the ditch in a crevasse of about 
six or eight inches." 

On the 15th of May, 1865, Captain Southwick inspected the 
Second Battalion at Plaquemine, and reported as follows : 



FOURTEENTH R. I. HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I 20, 

"The garrison of this Post consists of the Second Battalion 
(Companies E, F, G, and H,) Eleventh United States Colored 
Artillery (Heavy), and of Companies G and D of the Third 
Rhode Island Cavalry. The former is commanded by Maj. 
Richard G. Shaw, and the latter by Maj. Edmund C. Burt. 
Col. J. Hale Sypher, Eleventh United States Colored Artillery 
(Heavy), commands the Post. The town is compactly built on 
the south bank of Bayou Plaquemine, at its junction with the 
Mississippi. The artillery is in camp just outside the town, on 
the river bank and north of the 'fort.' The camp is very clean. 
The quarters consist of huts which present a neat and comforta- 
ble appearance. The streets are graded and have brick side- 
walks. The detachment of Third Rhode Island Cavalry is in 
barracks (abandoned houses) in the westerly part of the village. 
They have good stables. Forage, good and sufficient. The 
horses are in very fair condition, except those at the Telegraph 
Station across the ' River.' 

"The infantry pickets, Eleventh United States Colored Artil- 
lery (Heavy), are placed along the Bayou for about a mile; then 
diagonally to the river to about one-quarter of a mile below the 
'fort.' This duty is approximately as effectively performed as 
the small force and extended line will admit. The daily detail 
from the Eleventh United States Colored Artillery (Heavy) is 
seventy-five men ; from the Third Rhode Island Cavalry, twenty 
men. The cavalry is in two detachments ; one thrown out about 
one-third of a mile beyond the infantry pickets on the road along 
the river, and one on that along the south side of the Bayou 
Plaquemine. A horseman constantly patrols the road from the 
infantry pickets to the cavalry outpost. 

"At the Telegraph Station directly across the river are twenty- 
four men of Company G, Third Rhode Island Cavalry, in charge 
of a second lieutenant of that company ; also twenty-four men 
from the four artillery companies. Lieut. James P. Brown, Com- 
pany H, Eleventh United States Colored Artillery (Heavy), com- 
mands both detachments. He is about twenty years of age, but 
evidently a very fair officer. His detachment was in very good 
shape. The arms and accoutrements were especially worthy. 
9 



130 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

There was no dust even on the pieces. Their quarters and sta- 
bles are good. The cavalry patrols the river road, while the 
infantry guards the rear as well as the roads " 

In an interview between Generals Grant and Sheridan prior to 
the latter's assumption of the command of the Military Division 
of West Mississippi, Grant informed Sheridan that an additional 
motive in sending him to his new command was to look after our 
interests on the Rio Grande, and especially to observe the move- 
ments of Maximilian, who was at that time invading Mexico. 
Grant considered this action of Maximilian as a part of the rebel- 
lion itself, because of the encouragement the movement had 
received from the Confederacy, and he was convinced that the 
overthrow of the Rebellion would not be complete until the French 
and Austrian troops were compelled to quit the territory of 
Mexico. 

Upon the arrival of Sheridan at his new command, and ascer- 
taining that the surrender of some of the forces of Gen. Kirby 
Smith had not been carried out in good faith, particularly by the 
Texas troops, he decided to traverse the State with two columns 
of cavalry ; one to proceed direct to San Antonio, under Merritt, 
and the other to Houston, under Custer. Gen. Francis J. Herron, 
with one division of the Thirteenth Corps, occupied Galveston ; and 
another division, under Gen. Frederick Steele, had gone to Brazos 
Santiago, to hold Brownsville and the line of the Rio Grande. 
This was to prevent the escaping Confederates from joining 
Maximilian, and to move against the invaders of Mexico if occa- 
sion demanded. The Fourth and Twenty-fifth Army Corps were 
also ordered to report to Sheridan, and he sent the Fourth Corps 
to Victoria and San Antonio, and the larger portion of the 
Twenty-fifth to Brownsville. 

On the 26th of May, 1865, Gen. E. Kirby Smith surrendered 
the trans-Mississippi department, leaving no other Confederate 
army to continue the war. When General Smith's troops passed 
down the Mississippi, on their way to New Orleans, several of the 
steamers on which they were embarked stopped at Plaquemine 
for a short time. Here, for a few pennies, large quantities of 
Confederate bills and postage-stamps were exchanged. I re- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I 3 1 

member on one occasion when a body of paroled Confederate 
prisoners passed through Plaquemine, the officers were in- 
vited to partake of the hospitalities tendered by the officers of 
our battalion, and it was a pleasure to extend courtesies to our 
former foes, and to remember that these men were Americans, 
like ourselves, and had staked their lives and fortunes on the 
issues of war, and, as we were the victors and they had been de- 
feated, we could afford to be generous and forgiving to our late 
enemies. 

On the 25th of June, 1865, the Second Battalion received 
orders to proceed to Donaldsonville, La. The battalion left Pla- 
quemine at ten o'clock on the evening of that date, on the steamer 
Minneola, arriving at Donaldsonville about midnight, and en- 
camped a short distance from the fort, called Fort Butler. Colonel 
Sypher assumed command of the post. 

The town of Donaldsonville is situated on the Mississippi, at 
the confluence of that river and Bayou La Fourche, about seventy- 
eight miles above New Orleans, and eighteen below Plaquemine. 
A spirited engagement took place here in June, 1863, between the 
Union forces and the Confederates. Fort Butler was a square 
redoubt, placed in the northern angle between the bayou and the 
Mississippi, and designed to command and protect the river gate- 
way to La Fourche, mounting (at that time) four guns, and originally 
intended for a garrison of perhaps 600 men. The parapet was high 
and thick, like the levee, and was surrounded by a deep ditch, the 
flanks on the bayou and the river being further protected by 
stout stockades extending from the levees to the water at ordinary 
stages. 

On the 27th of June, 1863, Colonel Green (Confederate) with 
his own brigade, General Major's brigade, and Semmes's Battery, 
appeared before Donaldsonville and demanded the surrender of 
Fort Butler. The work was then held by a mixed force of 180 
men, comprising two small companies of the Twenty-eighth 
Maine, besides a number of convalescents of various regiments. 
Maj. Joseph D. Bullen, of the Twenty-eighth Maine, was in com- 
mand. 

Soon after midnight the Confederates commenced their attack 
upon the fort and its occupants with musketry. The assault was 



132 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

made in the most determined manner. A writer in describing 
this affair says : 

" Some of the Confederates passed around the end of the river 
stockade, others climbed and helped one another over ; some 
tried to to cut it down with axes ; many fired through the loop- 
holes ; another force made a circuit of the fort, and tried the 
bayou stockade, while still another party attempted to cross the 
ditch on the land side. The fight at the stockade was desperate 
in the extreme, those who succeeded in forcing the barrier found 
an impregnable obstacle in the ditch, whose existence they had 
not even suspected. Here the combatants fought hand to hand ; 
even the sick who had barely strength to walk from the hospital 
to the rampart took part in the defence. Although the Confed- 
erates fought with great bravery, it was of no avail before the 
determined resistance of the stout little band." 

A portion of Farragut's fleet took part in this affair. Lieuten- 
ant-Commander Woolsey, in describing the close of the engage- 
ment, says : " The smoke clearing away about four o'clock a. m., 
discovered the American flag flying over the fort. Gave three 
cheers and came to anchor." Yet the same sun rose upon a 
ghastly sight, upon green slopes gray with the dying and the 
maimed, and the black ditch red with blood. The Union garri- 
son buried sixty-nine Confederates, while the rebel general, 
Green, put his loss at forty killed, 114 wounded, 107 missing, in 
all 261. The Union garrison lost one officer and seven men 
killed, and two officers and eleven men wounded. The navy lost 
one man killed and two wounded. 

Shortly after the arrival of the Second Battalion at Donaldson- 
ville an unfortunate and tragic affair occurred. The First Louis- 
iana Infantry was stationed in the fort. The regiment had just 
been paid off, and some of the men took the opportunity to get 
intoxicated. A corporal of that regiment with his men under- 
took to arrest Sergt. Joseph Smith of Company H of the battalion, 
and, when he attempted to escape, shot him dead. Our men were 
greatly incensed in consequence of this outrage, and were desirous 
of charging upon the fort where a bloody combat would doubtless 
have ensued had they not been restrained by the officers of the 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 133 

battalion. The assembly was sounded, the men of the several 
companies fell into line, and were commanded under penalty of 
severe punishment not to make any movement towards the fort. 
Affairs looked quite serious for awhile, but finally order was 
restored. 

On the 4th of July, 1865, the celebration of the national anni- 
versary of American independence was observed in a becoming 
manner. A meeting of the Union citizens of the place was held, 
and addresses were made by several gentlemen. I cannot now 
recall all the exercises of the day, but I recollect that the meeting 
was well attended by our soldiers and the colored people of the 
town, and that Colonel Sypher made an eloquent and patriotic 
address on that occasion. 

Captain Addeman, in describing the events that transpired 
during the stay of our battalion in Donaldsonville, says : 

"Among the duties here assigned to me, was service as provost 
marshal of the parish, an office which combined as varied a re- 
sponsibility as can well be imagined. In certain civil cases I 
had, as judge, jury, and executioner of my own decisions, plenty 
of employment. With an occasional call to join in matrimonial 
bonds sundry pairs of hearts that beat as one, I had much more 
frequent cause to settle disputes between planters and employes, 
where neither party was disposed to meet the other half way. 
Vexatious and varied as my employments were, and anxious as I 
might be to do justice, I was liable to be overhauled by head- 
quarters from misrepresentations made by angry and disap- 
pointed suitors. One event in my administration of the office 
caused quite a sensation for the day. In the presence of a crowd 
of whites and blacks, I heard a case in which a colored woman, 
who had till recently been a slave, was plaintiff and principal wit- 
ness, and a white man was defendant, and gave judgment in 
favor of the former. This may seem to you a very simple matter, 
but it was evidently no ordinary occurrence in that place, and I 
presume this was the first occasion in the experience of many 
spectators, in which the sworn testimony of a Negro was received 
as against that of a white person. I seem now to see the glaring 
eyes of one indignant southron as he scowled upon the proceed- 



134 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

ings with the intensest malignity. It was not difficult to guess at 
his opinion of the changed order of things, while to the colored 
people, it was evident that the year of jubilee had come at last." 

On the 26th of July, Gen. Thomas W. Sherman came up from 
New Orleans and made a thorough inspection of the battalion. 

The only death among the officers of the Second Battalion 
during its term of service occurred at Donaldsonville. Lieut. 
James P. Brown died on the 23d day of August, 1865. He was 
universally beloved and respected for his manliness, integrity, and 
true soldierly qualities. He was followed to the grave by his 
companions-in-arms and received a soldier's burial, 

We should do injustice to the memory of a faithful and upright 
soldier if we omitted to mention the circumstance of the death 
of Sergt. Alexander Atwood, of Company E. He was known 
throughout the regiment as a modest and conscientious man, and 
was greatly respected by both officers and men. His patriotism 
was unquestioned, having journeyed from Canada to enlist in the 
Union army in the States. At home he was a man of prominence 
among his people, having acquired considerable property, and it 
is said was the proprietor of a grocery store, and was doing a 
thriving business at the time of his enlistment. While stationed 
at Plaquemine he was visited by his wife, who had come from her 
far northern home to meet her soldier husband. Little did she 
think when she started on her journey homeward that she never 
would look again on the face of her beloved companion, but so it 
was to be. He was of great assistance to his captain in copying 
muster rolls, and performing the duties of a company clerk. He 
was a fit representative of the enlisted men of the colored troops 
of the Union. 

Capt. Henry K. Southwick inspected the battalion at Donaldson- 
ville, July 15, 1865, and made the following report to headquar- 
ters : 

" Col. J. Hale Sypher, Eleventh United States Colored Artillery 
(Heavy), commanding post. First Lieut. Charles H. Aldrich, 
Company G, Eleventh United States Colored Artillery (Heavy), 
is post quartermaster. Had eight six-mule wagons, fifty-three 
good mules, and nineteen horses, all serviceable, but small. I 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). [35 

would call attention to the exorbitant rent paid by the quarter- 
master department ($100 a month) for a small building, and a 
large stable attached, used for post headquarters. This building 
was transferred by the late post quartermaster to Lieutenant 
Aldrich. Lieutenant A. told me that the officer said that this 
price was fixed by a board under direction of Col. Samuel B. Hola- 
bird, chief quartermaster Department of the Gulf. I think $40 a 
month would be an ample price. First. Lieut. John E. Wardlow, 
Company E, Eleventh United States Colored Artillery (Heavy), 
is post commissary of subsistence. Has 50,000 rations on hand. 
Uses the old market building as storehouse, for which it is well 
adapted. First Lieut. William S. Dyer, Company E, Eleventh 
United States Colored Artillery (Heavy), acting ordnance officer. 
Keeps his stores in a wooden building inside the fort. The mag- 
azine contained about two inches of water. At the time he took 
charge the stores were in a large barge — on the river." 

On the 3d of June, 1865, while the First Battalion was sta- 
tioned at Brashear City, Lieut. Charles H. Chace, of Company A, 
who was at that time on detached service as Acting Ordnance 
Officer on the staff of Gen. Robert A. Cameron, commanding the 
District of La Fourche, was directed to take the steamer Tommy 
with such troops as he should deem necessary, and find Capt. 
Bailey Peyton Vinson 1 and his company of scouts, who were sup- 
posed to be in the vicinity of Franklin. He was directed to 
inform him of the situation of affairs, and demand his surrender 
to the United States authorities. Lieutenant Chace was ordered 
to °;o even as far as New Iberia. 



1 Captain Vinson, the leader of this intrepid band of scouts, first entered the service 
of the Confederate States as a lieutenant in Col. Charles Dreux's Battalion, the first 
military organization from the State of Louisiana to take up arms against the United 
States. Colonel Dreux was one of the first Confederate officers killed at the commence- 
ment of the Rebellion, and Captain Vinson was directed to escort his remains to 
Louisiana. Captain Vinson was subsequently transferred to the Eleventh Louisiana 
Volunteers (Confederate), in which organization he remained until the capture of New 
Orleans. Captain Vinson then returned to his home in St. Mary's Parish, where he organ- 
ized a company of scouts, or " Rough Riders," as he termed them. His command made a 
reputation for dash and daring in the southwestern part of the State that was not 
excelled by any similar force in the Trans-Mississippi department. Captain Vinson was 
a brave, honest and impulsive man, true as steel to his friends, and an open and fc-.irk-ss 
enemy. 



I36 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

St. Mary's Parish and the several adjacent parishes were the 
field of Captain Vinson's operations. This region contained 
many sugar plantations situated along the banks of Berwick Bay, 
Bayou Teche, the Atchafaylaya River, and the various bayous 
and water ways in that section. More than a hundred vessels 
plied between Franklin (a charming little town on the Bayou 
Teche, about twenty-two miles above Brashear City), and various 
ports. 

Lieutenant Chace, in referring to this expedition, says : 

" I selected my own company (A) of eighty men, with Captain 
Fry and Lieutenant Greene, and bearing a flag of truce, about 
six o'clock in the morning, proceeded on the steamer Tommy up 
Berwick Bay to the junction of the Teche and the Atchafalaya. 
At this point an earthwork mounting six guns had been erected 
by the Union forces and named Fort Buchanan, in honor of Capt. 
Thomas McKean Buchanan, who commanded the Union fleet of 
gunboats when Gen. Godfrey Weitzel made an attack on Taylor's 
forces in January, 1863. In the fight between the gunboats and 
the rebel iron-clad Cotton on the Bayou Teche the raking fire of 
our batteries on shore, supported by the infantry, silenced the 
fire of the Cotton. She then retreated out of range. That night 
her crew set her on fire, and let her swing across the bayou to 
serve as an additional obstruction. In a few moments she was 
completely destroyed. Before this action was over the brave 
Captain Buchanan was slain. 1 

"As we passed the wreck of the Cotton, near Pattersonville, 
none of Vinson's command could be seen, but clouds of dust i» 
the distance proved conclusively to my mind that he was keeping 
abreast with us and watching our movements with the intention 
of discovering our mission in that locality. When we reached 
the town of Franklin I became convinced that matters might 
remain in this condition indefinitely, and I was determined to 
brig them to a focus. I directed the captain of the steamer 
Tommy to run his boat up to the levee and make fast. The 
clouds of dust I had been observing indicated that the forces on 



1 This fort was afterwards captured from the Union forces by the combined attack 
from the rebel generals Mouton and Green. 




CAPT. CHARLES C CRAGIN 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I 37 

land were moving in the direction of Franklin. I directed Cap- 
tain Fry to remain on board, and not allow a man to venture on 
shore until my return. 

" I took my servant, Billy Valentine, and went up into the 
town to see if I could obtain an interview with Captain Vinson. 
After leaving the steamer we took the main street that led into 
the place. Not a soul was to be seen, but an occasional move- 
ment of the curtains or blinds assured me that our presence was 
well known to the inhabitants, and that we were being closely 
observed, for in a moment, without any warning, we were sur- 
rounded by about twenty-five men who seemed almost to rise up 
from the ground. They were armed with carbines, revolvers, 
sabres, and some even having weapons concealed in their boot- 
legs. To say that I was alarmed feebly expressed my feelings 
on that occasion, for I was completely in their power had they 
been disposed to harm me. I put on a bold front, however, and, 
stepping up to the men, I inquired the way to the mayor's office. 
It should be remarked that all towns in Louisiana are favored 
with an individual holding that exalted title. The men appeared 
inclined to treat me civilly, and invited me to follow them, and 
with this escort I proceeded to the mayor's office and was intro- 
duced to the Hon. A. D. Tucker, mayor of Franklin. He received 
me politely, and conducted me into his private office, accompanied 
by my servant, Valentine, who I thought would be safer with me 
than with the Confederates in waiting outside. 

" I had a very pleasant conversation with the mayor, lasting 
about half an hour. I inquired of him if he knew where I could 
find Captain Vinson. As I was confident that the men in wait- 
ing were a portion of his command, I gave the mayor a copy of 
my orders. He then went outside the building and held a long 
interview with Lieut. William R. Collins, who had ' just rode into 
town.' Lieutenant Collins said that if I would return to Patter- 
sonville on my boat, he would guarantee to have Captain Vinson 
there on my arrival. Thanking the mayor for his courtesy, I bade 
him good-bye, and together with my servant returned to my boat. 
Upon arriving there I found the officers and men somewhat 
anxious eoncerning my protracted absence. After explaining to 



I38 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Captain Fry the situation, we proceeded to Pattersonville. Upon 
reaching that place I adopted the same tactics as at Franklin- 
Leaving Company A on board the boat, I went on shore to meet 
the commanding officer as previously agreed upon. At first no 
troops were visible, but afterwards I observed several horses 
hitched in a clump of trees about twenty rods from the levee. 
On going towards them I saw about thirty of Vinson's men 
lounging under the trees. I inquired if Captain Vinson was 
about, and they replied that he was not there, but that they ex- 
pected him very soon. On looking up the road I saw a cloud of 
dust, and asked if that was Captain Vinson approaching. They 
answered in the affirmative. In the meantime I improved the 
opportunity to scrutinize their carbines. If any of our people 
are of the opinion that the Confederates in the Trans-Mississippi 
department were poorly armed, I desire to disabuse their minds 
as far as ' Brintz's Cavalry Brigade ' was concerned, of which body 
this command formed a part. Each man carried either a Sharpe 
or Burnside carbine, two revolvers (navy), and a sabre besides, 
and appeared to be in excellent condition and ' ready for busi- 
ness.' 

" I had not long to wait before Captain Vinson appeared, ac- 
companied by Captain Wiltz (afterwards governor of the State), 
Lieut. William R. Collins, and a Major Devlin of the ' Home 
Guards,' or ' Bald Hornets,' as they were called. After they had 
dismounted I introduced myself, tendered to Captain Vinson Gen- 
eral Cameron's compliments and stated to him the object of my 
mission, together with the conditions which was to attend the 
surrender of his command. 

"As Captain Vinson's company occupied one of the extreme 
outposts of the Confederacy, and located at a great distance from 
headquarters, he only knew by rumor of the surrender of Lee and 
Johnston, and having had no official information of the fact, it 
placed him in a dilemma, for although he fully realized the situa- 
tion, he considered it unsoldierlike to surrender on the strength 
of a' rumor. He frankly stated to me his position in the absence 
of instructions from headquarters ; and, not desiring to take any 
undue advantage of an honorable foe, I would not ask him to sur- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I 39 

render until he had communicated with his superior officers. In 
the meantime, in order to avoid confusion, I requested him to 
keep his command intact, and extended an invitation to himself 
and his officers to accompany me to headquarters, and if my 
statement of affairs was not confirmed to them satisfactorily by 
General Cameron, I pledged my word of honor that I would see 
that they returned to Pattersonville unmolested. They accepted 
my proposition, and we went on board the boat, and proceeded 
on our way to Brashear City. 

" Upon our arrival at that place we proceeded directly to the 
headquarters of General Cameron, who, after the customary in- 
troduction, confirmed the statements I had made to Captain 
Vinson, and fully approved my actions. After the arrangements 
for the surrender of Captain Vinson's command had been com- 
pleted he returned to Pattersonville, and his company was soon 
afterwards disbanded. 

" I am credibly informed that this company of scouts was the 
last organization of the Confederacy to surrender. Captain 
Vinson retired to his plantation, some six miles below Brashear 
City, and it was my privilege to visit him occasionally during the 
stay of our battalion at Brashear City. I learned to admire his 
sterling qualities of mind and heart, and could not but observe 
that he was a true representative of an American soldier, although 
fighting on the wrong side. I wish it was in my power to produce 
his farewell order to his command, but it is impossible, it having 
been mislaid, but it embodied in its sentences those fine traits of 
character that stamped him as a man of chivalric bearing and 
generous deeds. I would state in conclusion that throughout the 
whole expedition every action of the men of my command was 
commendable, and, although subjected to a few trivial annoy- 
ances, they showed by their conduct that they fully understood 
their position, and did not give me any needless inconvenience or 
disappoint the good opinion I had formed of them." 

On the 5th of July, 1865, Captain Southwick inspected the 
First Battalion, at Post Brashear, and made the following report 
to Headquarters District of La Fourche : 

" Maj. Andrew Fitzwater, Eleventh United States Colored 
Artillery (Heavy) commanding Post. First Lieut. George W. 



I4O FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Weeden, Company C, Eleventh United States Colored Artillery 
(Heavy), Post Adjutant. Keeps his office neat and his papers in 
good order. . . . First Lieut. Charles H. Chace, Company 
A, Eleventh United States Colored Artillery (Heavy), Acting 
Ordnance Officer. Stores in a wooden building formerly used as 
Post Headquarters. The Post Commander receipts for all Ord- 
nance pertaining to the Post. The stores appeared to be well 
cared for and in good order." 

Let us now return to the Third Battalion stationed at Camp 
Parapet, La. 

The following order will indicate the interest manifested for 
the welfare of the troops at Camp Parapet : 

HEADqUARTERS, UNITED STATES FORCES, 

Camp Parapet, La., June 8th, 1S65. 
General Orders, JVo. 12. 

Camp regulations for the preservation of the health of troops within this 
District : 

I. Captains and Commanders of companies will make daily inspections 
of the messes and cooking utensils of their men, and see that the imper- 
fectly cooked food is never eaten. They will be held responsible for the 
cleanliness of the articles used by the cooks and the purity of the water. 

II. Camps will be thoroughly policed every morning, and one officer 
from each company shall be present, and he will be held responsible for its 
thoroughness. A field officer from each regiment will supervise his own 
regiment, and require the re-policing at once of any company imperfectly 
policed. All dead animals, animal carcasses, vegetable matter, and litter of 
camp, will be carted at least one mile from camp and buried in deep pits. 
The sinks must be dug deep, often filled, and new ones made. Tent floors 
must be raised as often as twice a week, the ground beneath them be 
exposed to the sun, and well ventilated and dried. Grass and weeds must 
be kept closely cut, and as far as practicable drainage must be made perfect. 

IV. The authorized Sutlers of every command will be required to keep 
constantly on hand the usual stores and goods necessary for the wants of 
soldiers. They must be selected with a view to the season and health of 
the men. Fruits and vegetables must be ripe and wholesome. When it is 
not practicable to fix the tariff of prices by a Council of Administration, 
commanding officers will see that exorbitant prices are not exacted, and 
confine the issue of checks to the amount prescribed by Revised Army 
Regulations, /86j. 

V. Regimental Surgeons will make weekly inspections of the messes of 
companies, and report in writing to these Headquarters, the quality of the 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I4I 

rations, the kind of cooking, the cleanliness of kitchens, and any neglect of 
company officers in proper supervision of the cooking and messing of their 
men. 

VI. The health of troops during the approaching hot and sickly season 
requires the exact execution of these regulations, and Commanding Officers 
will be held responsible that they are so executed. No excuse will be 
admissible for their neglect, and it is announced that every neglect will be 
followed by the prompt arrest and trial by Court Martial of the party. 

By order of 

Lieut.-Col. NELSON VIALL, 

Commanding Post. 

Benjamin D. Jones, 

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. 
Official : 

A. F. Cameron, 

1st Lt. & Act. Aidc-de-Camp. 

An order in relation to the firing of salutes on Independence 
Day, July 4, 1865, is here given : 



General Orders, No /j. 



Headquarters United States Forces, 

Camp Parapet, La., July 2, 1865. 



In order to fully carry out the provisions of General Orders No. 31, cur- 
rent series, from Headquarters Southern Division of Louisiana, it is hereby 
announced : 

1. That there will be Federal salutes at sunrise and sunset, and a 
national salute at Meridian, on the 89th Anniversary of American In- 
dependence, fired from the Main Redoubt at this Post, under the direction 
of Lieut.-Col. Nelson Viall, nth U. S. C. A. (H.). 

2. There will be a parade under arms, of the troops at this Post, at Me- 
ridian and during the firing of the national salute. Each Regiment and 
Battalion will be paraded on its own color line. 

3. All other duties, except those of the usual and necessary guards, will 
be suspended for the day. 

By order of 

Lieut.-Col. NELSON VIALL. 

Commanding Post. 
Benjamin D. Jones, 
2nd Lient. uth U. S. C. A. (H.) 
Post Adjutant. 



142 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

On the 16th of July, 1865, Lieutenant-Colonel Viall issued the 
following order: 

" There will be an inspection of this command Monday, July 17, 
1865, by Brevet Major-General Sherman. The line to be com- 
posed of Companies I, K, and M, will be formed in front of the 
barracks of I, K, and M, at 7.15 o'clock a. m., preparatory to 
taking position in line with the other regiments of the post. The 
general will probably direct a few movements in evolutions of the 
line, such as passing in review, wheeling into line, forming 
divisions and firing. . . . Company commanders will at this 
evening's inspection practice the different modes of firing, and 
endeavor to perfect the men in them. 

" The company books will be sent to these headquarters before 
the line is formed, for inspection afterwards. 

"All men on extra daily duty who can possibly be spared will 
be present in their respective companies." 

In the summer of 1865, the war having terminated, various 
rumors were afloat concerning the disposition to be made of our 
regiment. Among other stories in circulation it was reported 
that we were to be retained in the service until the full term of our 
enlistment should expire. 

On the 25th of July, 1865, Maj. Joseph J. Comstock was hon- 
orably discharged from the regiment for disability. He had seen 
long and honorable service, having entered the army early in 
186 1, as private in the Seventh New York Volunteers. He was 
afterwards, Aug. 15, 1861, commissioned first lieutenant in the 
Third Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. He was the first adjutant 
of the regiment. He was subsequently promoted to captain, 
which position he held when he received his commission as major 
of the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. 

In compliance with the following order issued from Headquar- 
ters Department of Louisiana, the captains of the regiment 
received permission to appear before a Board of Examiners con- 
vened in the city of New Orleans for the purpose of testing their 
qualifications for the vacancy occasioned by the retirement of 
Major Comstock from the service : 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 143 

Headquarters, Dept. of Louisiana, 

New Orleans, La., Aug. 24, 1865. 
Special Orders, No 36. 

Extract. 

The following named 'officers of the nth U. S. Colored Artillery 
(He'avy) have permission to appear before Board of Examiners, of which 
Col. S. M. Quincv, 73d U. S. Colored Infantry, is President, now in ses- 
sion in this city, for examination as to their qualifications and fitness for 
promotion to the grade of Major, a vacancy now occurring in that regi- 
ment. 

Capt. Thomas W. Fry, Capt. Joshua M. Addeman, 

., " George Bucklin, " Charles C. Cragin, 

" Nelson Kenyon, " Samuel Farnum, 

" George W. Cole, " George A. Spink, 

" Phanuel E. Bishop, " Oscar R. Livingston. 

By order of Major. General E. R. S. CANBY, 

Wickham Hoffman, 

Asst. Adjt. General. 
Official : 

Nathaniel Burbank, 

1st Lieut. Acting Asst. Adj. Gen. 

It should be stated that Capt. Henry K. Southwick received 
a special order granting him permission to appear before this 
Board. 



CHAPTER XVI 

Reduction of the Union Forces — Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Ordered to be Mustered Out — All the Battalions Con- 
centrate at Camp Parapet — Muster Out — The Regiment 
Departs for New York — Parade in that City — Departure 
for Portsmouth Grove, R. I. — Parade in Providence — Final 

DlSBANDMENT OF THE REGIMENT AT PORTSMOUTH GROVE. 

A REDUCTION of the forces of the Union was almost daily 
taking place, and it was ultimately decided by the military 
authorities that the services of the regiment were no longer 
required, and, in September, 1865, the several battalions were 
ordered to assemble at Camp Parapet, preparatory to being mus- 
tered out of service. 

The order mustering the regiment out reads as follows : 

Headquarters, Department of Louisiana, 
New Orleans, La., 

September 12, 1865. 
Special Orders, No 56. 

[Extract.] 

9. Brevet Major-General Sherman, Commanding Eastern District of 
Louisiana, will relieve the Battalions of the nth U. S. Colored Artillery 
(Heavy), stationed at Brashear City, and at Donaldsonville, and its vicin- 
ity, as soon as possible. On being relieved the nth U. S. Colored Artil- 
lery (Heavy), will concentrate at Camp Parapet, Louisiana; it will then 
report by its Commanding Officer to Captain A. H. McDonald, Commis- 
sary of Musters, and be immediately mustered out of service as an entire 
organization, in accordance with telegraphic instructions from the War 
Department, dated September S, 1865, after which it will proceed to Provi- 
dence, Rhode Island, for payment and final discharge. 

All public property (except arms, colors, and equipage necessary en 
route}, will be turned over to the proper Staff Departments in this city. 

All officers and detached men of this regiment on detached service, unless 
by higher authority than that of these Headquarters, will be relieved with- 
out further orders, and join their regiments for muster-out. 



FOURTEENTH R. I. HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I45 

General Orders, No. 94, current series, from the War Department, will 
be complied with. 

The Quartermaster's Department will furnish the necessary transporta- 
tion. 

By order of 

Major-General E. R. S. CANBY, 

Wickham Hoffman, 

Assistant A djutant- General. 
Official : 

(Signed,) Nathaniel BuRBANK, 

1st Lieut., Acting Asst. Adjt. -General. 

In compliance with the orders above alluded to the First Bat- 
talion arrived at Camp Parapet on the 16th of September, and 
the Second Battalion on the 17 th. 

Probably the last letter from the regiment written to the Provi- 
dence Journal was indited at Camp Parapet, Sept. 14, 1865, in 
which the writer says: "The Eleventh United States Colored 
Artillery (Heavy), formerly the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy 
Artillery, has received an order from the War Department to be 
mustered out, and will soon be on its way home. The First Bat- 
talion, at Brashear City, and the Second, at Donaldsonville, are 
ordered to concentrate at Camp Parapet, where the regiment will 
be mustered out as an organization, and will then proceed direct 
to Providence for final payment and discharge. This order is to 
take effect immediately. 

" No news could have been more grateful to the officers and 
men of this command, and it was as unexpected as it was wel- 
come. The war is over, and there is an almost universal desire 
to return to the peaceful pursuits of civil life. A large propor- 
tion of the men have homes and families which they temporarily 
left in order to aid their imperilled country. The officers entered 
the organization when to do so was, in the eyes of many, a 
stigma and disgrace. They have labored faithfully and well in 
the discharge of their onerous duties, and have the satisfaction of 
knowing that their labors were not in vain. The regiment has 
attained a high standard for discipline and efficiency, and its de- 



I46 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

parture from this department will leave a vacancy not easily 
rilled. Through the personal exertion of the officers, a large pro- 
portion of the men have acquired the rudiments of an education, 
and, from the experience of the past two years, will return to 
their homes in every way better prepared to fulfill the duties of 
citizenship. Should the regular army be composed in part of 
colored troops, many of them will undoubtedly enter its ranks. 
It is not improbable, also, that some of the officers, whose tastes 
are congenial to the profession of arms, will find permanent posi- 
tions in the army, which they can fill with credit to themselves 
and the service. 

" If spared to reach the State of which we have reason to be 
proud, and which we are all anxious to see, we shall have the 
largest regiment which has ever been seen together in Rhode 
Island. But even in that case it will be with decimated ranks. 
We have probably lost five hundred men by death and discharge. 
We leave many a brave comrade to moulder away in the soil of 
Louisiana. Some have fallen by the bullets of the enemy, but 
the greater portion by the terrible diseases of the climate. The 
miasma of the swamps, laden with noxious exhalations from the 
luxuriant but poisonous vegetation, has brought to the lonely 
sentinel on picket a cause of death to which the bullet of the foe 
would have been every way preferable. Many have already re- 
turned to their homes, with constitutions shattered in the service 
of their country. It is sincerely to be hoped that their country- 
men for whom they have perilled so much will not permit them 
to suffer from neglect. 

"The present has been an unhealthy season, but the men, 
having become acclimated, have not suffered so much as a year 
ago. But better than medicine for the sick, and better than a 
preventive of disease for the well, is the hope of soon reaching 
home. With buoyant hearts and cheerful steps will all obey the 
order to move in that direction." 

Here at Camp Parapet for the first and last time, the different 
battalions of the regiment were assembled together. The dress 
parades of the regiment were especially noticeable. Nearly four- 
teen hundred men appearing in line, made an imposing appear- 




CAPT. GEORGE A. SPINK 



From a recent picture 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 147 

ance. Our time was employed at Camp Parapet in preparing 
our rolls and getting ready to be mustered out of service. 

On the 2d day of October, 1865, the regiment was finally mus- 
tered out, and on the 7th it embarked on board the steamship 
North Star for New York. The voyage was stormy and tempest- 
uous, but our staunch vessel commanded by our sturdy captain 
(Jones), arrived safely at its destination. Three officers of our 
regiment, Captains Samuel Farnum and Oscar R. Livingston, and 
Lieut. William F. Tansey, of the Third Battalion, who had taken 
passage on the ill-fated steamer Atlanta, lost their lives by the 
foundering of that vessel. In the fearful storm which we felt as 
we passed the Jersey shore, more than a hundred vessels were 
wrecked on the coast, and among the number was the Daniel 
Webster, our old friend which took the Second Battalion from 
Dutch Island to New Orleans. 

Arriving in New York harbor, on the 15th, our vessel was de- 
tained all night at quarantine. During the evening a meeting of 
the officers was called and adopted a series of complimentary 
resolutions to Captain Jones and his officers of the North Star, 
for their courteous treatment and for the ability which they dis- 
played in conducting their vessel throughout the hazardous voyage. 

About nine o'clock on the morning of the iGth, an official 
came aboard, and, after inspecting the regiment in regard to its 
health, gave us permission to proceed on our way. At ten o'clock 
we dropped anchor in the upper harbor, and Colonel Sypher went 
ashore on business, returning about dark. Soon after the regi- 
ment disembarked, marched up Broadway to Castle Garden, 
where the regiment was quartered for the night. 

In the afternoon of the following day (the r 7th) the regiment 
made a street parade, which was witnessed by crowds of people, 
with hearty demonstrations of applause. The New York papers 
made favorable comments on the fine appearance of the com- 
mand as it marched through the streets. Kmbarked about sun- 
down on the propellor Davis for Portsmouth Grove. R. I., reach- 
ing that place at eight and a half o'clock a. m., October 1 8th, 
and were received with a national salute, fired by a detachment 
of the Newport Artillery under Col. John Hare Powel. We were 



I48 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

quartered in the fine barracks here, which had been recently occu- 
pied as a United States hospital. 

On the morning of the 21st of October the regiment made a 
visit to Providence. It arrived in that city about ten o'clock, 
and was greeted with a salute by the Marine Artillery. The 
column was formed on South Main Street, and marched to City 
Hall, where, under the direction of Acting Adjt.-Gen. Henrie 
Crandall, L. H. Humphreys had prepared a bountiful collation. 
As the men filed in, keeping step to "Tramp, Tramp, Tramp," 
as pealed forth by the band of Morris Brothers, Pell & Trow- 
bridge's minstrels, and took their places at the tables, the specta- 
cle was exciting and inspiriting. After the men had refreshed 
themselves, the column was reformed and marched to Exchange 
Place, where a dress parade took place in the presence of His 
Excellency Gov. James Y. Smith and staff, and an immense con- 
course of spectators. This ended, the regiment broke into col- 
umn of companies, and, marching up Westminster Street, was 
reviewed by the Governor, and thence through several of the 
principal streets of the city, and then embarked for the rendez- 
vous at Portsmouth Grove. 

The next few days following the parade in Providence, the offi- 
cers in the meantime turning in their ordnance stores and camp 
and garrison equipage, and the men having been paid off, the 
regiment was finally disbanded, and the officers and men proceeded 
to their homes. 

We may not boast the honor of inscribing on our banners a long 
list of battles, yet may we not point with pardonable pride to ser- 
vices faithfully performed on the picket line, and in the daily rou- 
tine of camp and garrison duty. Let the many mounds in the 
lowlands of Louisiana, where we laid away the silent forms of our 
comrades in the untimely graves to which they had been borne, 
through the deadly effects of miasmatic swamps, testify to our 
contribution of noble souls who freely gave their lives for the 
preservation of this republic, the blessings of which we and our 
descendants now fully enjoy. 

And now after a lapse of more than a third part of a century, 
we rejoice in the fact that we have a reunited country, made pos- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I49 

sible by the valor and devotion of the Union soldier and sailor, 
and that our former foes are now among our firmest friends, and 
join with us in upholding the laws and flag of our common 
country. 

And may we not truthfully say with the poet : 

" O Beautiful ! My Country, ours once more ! 
Smoothing thy gold of war-disheveled hair 
O'er such sweet brows as never other wore, 
And letting thy set lips, 
Freed from wrath's pale eclipse, 
The rosy edges of their smile lay bare, 
What words divine of lover or of poet 
Could tell our love and make thee know it, 
Among the Nations bright beyond compare ! 
What were our lives without thee ? 
What all our lives to save thee? 
We reck not what we gave thee ; 
We will not dare to doubt thee; 
But ask whatever else, and we will dare." 



Addenda 



Since this work went to press we have been informed by Capt. Henry 
K. Southwick, quoting from his records as Acting Assistant Inspector- 
General of the District of Carrollton, that the statement on page 95 of this 
work, that "a detachment from the battalion under Lieut. Benjamin D. 
Jones was placed as a picket guard at Pass Manchac," etc., is incorrect. 

The facts are : Companies E and B, Seventh (renumbered Tenth) 
United States Heavy Artillery (Colored) was stationed during all the year 
1864 at Pass Manchac (thirty miles north of the Parapet) and Desair 
(twenty-three miles), on the New Orleans and Jackson Railroad. For 
the fifty-five or sixty days prior to about July 6, 1864, Company I, Eighth 
United States Heavy Artillery (Colored), under the command of Capt. 
Samuel Farnum, was stationed in three detachments at the following 
points along the same railroad, viz. : 

Shell Bank Bayou (twenty-one and one-half miles from the Parapet), 
two officers and sixty-three men. 

Frenier (seventeen miles), two officers and sixty men. 

La Branch Bayou (twelve and one-half miles), two officers and twenty- 
five men. 

These troops patrolled the railroad, guarded the bridges over the bayous 
and the long bridge across the " Pass" between Lakes Maurepas and Pont- 
chartrain; also barred unauthorized passing, and especially against spies, 
smugglers, and guerrillas. One train went from New Orleans to Pass 
Manchac and returned each day, to supply these troops chiefly. There was 
a United States military telegraph operator at Pass Manchac, at Carrollton 
District Headquarters (Camp Parapet), and in New Orleans ; but not at 
other points on this railroad. 

Just north of the Parapet the railroad entered the cypress swamp ; 
primeval trees of immense height, two hundred feet or more, which 
extended from Pontchartrain to Maurepas and Pass Manchac. At high 
water stages of the Mississippi this great swamp was usually flooded to 
the depth of one to three feet. In dry times the swamp became dry 
ground for the most part. The bayous are wide, deep canals, draining 
into the two lakes. At high water pirogues (dug-outs) and flat bottom 
skiffs could range the swamps, evading the pickets. 



Note. — On the 43d page, instead of " seventh and sixteenth wards," read "sixteenth 
and seventeenth wards." On pages 42, 43, and 44, " Carrolton " should read " Carrollton." 



ROSTER 



FIELD AND STAFF. 

Colonel. 

J. Hale Sypiier. Private First Ohio Light Artillery April 21, 1861 ; 
commissioned first lieutenant Battery B, First Ohio Light Artillery, 
Oct. 8, 1861 ; captain Nov. 20, 1861 ; resigned Feb. 3, 1864; commis- 
sioned colonel Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery (Colored) 
July 5, 1S64; mustered in Aug. 11, 1864; assumed command of regi- 
ment Aug. 24, 1864; appointed by order president of board of examina- 
tion for officers of colored troops Sept. 6, 1864; appointed president 
military commission Sept. 26, 1864; relieved from duty on military 
commission and board of examination by orders dated Nov. 21 and 22, 
1S64; appointed by order to command artillery camp of instruction 
Greenville, La., Nov. 25, 1864, and borne in command until January. 
1865; commanded the United States forces at the military posts of 
Plaquemine and Donaldsonville, Louisiana, and the reserve artillery of 
the department, and also served on special duty as president of general 
court-martial ; mustered out Oct 2, 1S65 ; breveted brigadier-general 
United States Volunteers to date from March 13, 1865, for faithful and 
meritorious services during the war. 

Lieutenant-Colonel. ' 

Nelson Viall. Corporal, sergeant, Ninth Infantry United States Vol- 
unteers, 1S47, and served in the Mexican War; in the War for the 
Union commissioned first lieutenant Company B, First Rhode Island 
Detached Militia, April 17, 1861 ; mustered in May 2, 1861 ; resigned 
June 4, 1861, to accept commission as captain in Company C, Second 
Rhode Island Infantry, June 5, 1861 ; mustered in same date; major 
July 22, 1S61 ; lieutenant-colonel June 12, 1862; appointed to the tem- 
porary command of the Tenth Massachusetts Infantry, July, 1S62; 
promoted colonel Second Rhode Island Infantry Dec. 13, 1862; re- 
signed Jan. 25, 1S63; commissioned major First Battalion Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Aug. 21, 1S63; commissioned lieuten- 



1 In the fall of 1863, Capt. Charles R. Brayton, of the Third Rhode Island Heavy Artil- 
lery, appeared before the Examining Board at Washington and received an appointment 
as lieutenant-colonel of the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, but declined ap- 
pointment. 



152 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

ant-colonel (and charged with the organization of the regiment) Jan. 
15, 1S64; mustered in same date; commanding regiment until Aug. 24, 
1864, when Col. Sypher assumed command; in immediate command 
of the Third Battalion, with short interruptions by other details until 
muster out of regiment ; commanding Post Parapet, La., April 23 to 
June 5, 1864; commanding Third Battalion June 5 to 21, 1864; com ~ 
manding post and artillery at Parapet from June 30, 1864; commanding 
District of Carrollton, as well as Post Parapet, Sept. iS to Nov. 7, 1S64; 
on general court-martial Nov. 7, 1864, and so borne until Dec, 1864; 
commanding post and Third Battalion from Dec, 1864, to March 20, 
1865 ; on general court-martial March 20, 1865 ; president military 
commission at New Orleans, La., July 6, 1S65; mustered out Oct, 2, 
1865 ; brevet brigadier-general of volunteers May 25, 1866, for faithful 
and meritorious services during the war. 

Majors. 

Joseph J. Comstock. Private Seventh New York Volunteers, Aug. 19, 
1861 ; commissioned second lieutenant in the Third Rhode Island 
Heavv Artillery, Sept., 1S61 ; subsequently promoted to first lieutenant 
and appointed adjutant Oct. 9, 1861 ; relieved from duty as adjutant 
and reported for duty in Company C, by order dated Jan. 11, 1S62 ; 
commissioned captain March 11, 1862, and assigned to Company M; 
borne on detached service at Fort McHenry, Md., from July 24, 1S62, 
until Aug., 1S62 ; on special duty general court-martial, March, 1S63; 
resigned by reason of promotion to major in Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery, Sept. 16, 1S63 ; mustered in Oct. 3, 1863; assigned 
to command of First Battalion; commanding First and Third Battal- 
ions at Camp Parapet, La., from June 21 to 30, 1864; ordered on 
general court-martial June 27, 1864; president general court-martial 
Aug. 18, 1864; commanding Forts Jackson and St. Philip, from 
July 6, 1864, until March 20, 1865; commanding Third Battalion 
(Camp Parapet), from March 20 to May 22, 1865; discharged on sur- 
geon's certificate July 25, 1S65. 

Richard G. Shaw. Commissioned captain Company D, Third Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery Aug. 27, 1861 ; mustered in Oct. 9, 1861 ; 
ordered to Fort Seward, S. C, Jan. 4, 1862, and so borne until July, 1862 ; 
borne on special duty commanding battalion at Morris Island, from 
Sept. 12, 1863, until Nov., 1863; after the capture of Forts Wagner and 
Gregg by the Union forces was assigned to the command of the latter 
battery, and continued in that capacity until Jan. 13, 1864, when he 
received an appointment as major in the Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavv Artillery; commissioned major in that regiment Dec. 14, 1S63, 
and assigned to the command of the Second Battalion ; mustered to 
date Jan. 31, 1S64; borne in command of Post Plaquemine, La., from 
March 26, 1864, until Aug. 24, 1864, when relieved by the arrival of 
Colonel Sypher; resumed command of Post Plaquemine Sept. 23, 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I 53 

1864, and so borne until Jan., 1S65; on military commission at New 
Orleans, La., from Aug. 21 till Aug. 28, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 
1S65; entered the regular army as second lieutenant in Battery M, 
First Artillery, May 4, 1866, and was breveted captain in the United 
States Army March 2, 1867, for gallant and meritorious conduct on 
Morris Island, S. C; commissioned first lieutenant July 2S, i86fj; 
promoted captain Sept. 20, 1883; placed on the retired list June 20, 
1896. 
Andrew J. Fitzwater. Commissioned major Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery, Aug. 30, 1864; mustered Sept. 26, 1864; assigned to 
Third Battalion; commanding Third Battalion from Nov. 7 to 24, 
1864; ordered on military board of investigation Nov. 25 to Dec, 
1864; president of a field officers' court-martial Feb. 18, 1865; com- 
manding First Battalion from March 20, 1865, to Oct. 2, 1865 ; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Surgeon. 

Benoni Carpenter. Commissioned Surgeon Twelfth Rhode Island In- 
fantry Oct. 15, 1862; mustered in same date; mustered out July 29, 
1863; commissioned surgeon Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery 
Oct. 16, 1863; re-mustered to date Sept. 5, 1863; served with Third 
Battalion; medical director and inspector, District of Carrollton, June 
15, 1S64: mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Assistant Surgeons. 

Joseph R. Draper. Entered the medical department of the United 
States Army in 1862, and was assigned to service in Armory Square 
Hospital, Washington, D. C. ; commissioned assistant surgeon in the 
Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Dec. 1, 1863, and served with 
First Battalion ; mustered in Dec. 11, 1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Horace Mecorney. Commissioned assistant surgeon Twenty-fifth Mas- 
sachusetts Infantry Sept. 29, 1862 ; mustered in same date ; resigned 
July 16, 1863 ; commissioned assistant surgeon Fourteenth Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery Dec. 7, 1863; mustered in Dec 7, 1863; served 
with Second Battalion; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Adjutant. 

Joseph C. Whiting, Jr. Private and corporal Company E, Tenth 
Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1862; mustered in same date ; mus- 
tered out Sept. 1, 1S62 ; sergeant Company A, Twelfth Rhode Island 
Infantry, Sept. 22, 1S62; mustered in Oct. 13, 1S62 ; promoted first 
sergeant Jan. 1, 1S63; commissioned second lieutenant May 23, 1S63; 
mustered to date from June 2, 1863; mustered out July 29, 1S63; com- 
missioned first lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, 
Nov. 9, 1863; re-mustered to date from Sept. 14, 1863; appointed 
regimental adjutant by Regimental General Orders, No. 1, dated Aug. 
27, 1S63; detached as post adjutant at Post Parapet, La., from April 



154 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

23, 1864, until Aug. 22, 1864, when he was summoned by Col. Sypher 
to the new regimental headquarters at Plaquemine, La. ; on military 
commission from Oct. 26, 1S64, until Nov. 21, 1864, when he was 
relieved from that duty; accompanied Col. Sypher to New Orleans, 
to Greenville, back to Plaquemine, to Donaldsonville ; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Quartermaster. 

John B. Peirce. Commissioned first lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery, Oct. 27, 1863; assigned to Company A; re- 
mustered to date Sept. 22, 1863; detached as regimental quartermaster 
Sept. 27, 1S63, and designated as such while regiment was being re- 
cruited, and accompanied the Third Battalion, serving as its quarter- 
master; detached as acting assistant quartermaster in chief quarter- 
master's department. New Orleans, La., and so borne until Jan., 
1865 ; ordered on duty as acting assistant quartermaster at Shreveport, 
La. ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865 ; afterwards received a captain's com- 
mission, and remained in the service until 1S66. 



NON-COMMISSIONED STAFF. 



Sergeant-Majors. 

Zebedee Howland. Enrolled as sergeant Company A, Aug. 4, 1863 ; 
mustered Aug. 28, 1863; sergeant-major Nov. 5, 1863; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

William Mercer. Enrolled as private Company E, Sept. S, 1863 ; 
mustered Oct. 5, 1863; promoted to sergeant March 27, 1864; borne 
as acting sergeant-major Second Battalion from Feb. 8, 1S64, until 
Aug. 31, 1S64, when promoted sergeant-major of regiment and trans- 
ferred to non-commissioned staff; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Quartermaster Sergeants. 

George W Hamblin. Enrolled as private Company A, Aug. 5, 1863; 
mustered Aug. 28, 1863; appointed quartermaster sergeant Aug. 28, 
1S63; promoted to regimental quartermaster sergeant Jan. 25, 1864; 
sick in Portsmouth Grove General Hospital, R. I., Aug. 1, 1865, and 
so borne until Aug. 30, 1865, when he was discharged on surgeon's 
certificate. 

David E. Howard. Enrolled and mustered as private Company L, 
Feb. 19, 1S64; promoted to quartermaster sergeant and transferred to 
non-commissioned staff Sept. 17, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 1 55 

Commissary Sergeant. 

Joseph G. Potter. Enrolled as private Co. A, Aug. 6, 1863; mustered 
Aug. 2S, 1S63; promoted to regimental commissary sergeant Aug. 
22, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hospital Steward. 

John A. Field. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 19, 1864, as hospital stew- 
ard ; discharged by sentence of general court-martial Feb. 28, 1S65. 

Principal Musician. 

Charles J. Tossett. Enrolled as private Co. D, Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered Sept. 22, 1S63; acting regimental drum-major, and so borne 
until Feb., 1864; died at Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 20, 1864. Also 
borne as Charles I. Tossett. 



COMPANY A. 

Captain. 
Thomas W. Fry. Commissioned first lieutenant Co. A, Third Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery, Aug. 20, 1864; mustered same date; in com- 
mand of Co L, at Hilton Head June, 1862; and so borne until Aug., 
1862 ; borne on detached service with Co. G, at Fort Pulaski, Ga., from 
Sept. 12, 1S62, until May 9, 1863; resigned June 15, 1S63; commissioned 
captain Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Oct. 28, 1863 ; 
assigned to Co. A; re-mustered to date Aug. 28, 1863; detached as 
acting assistant inspector general March 15, 1S64; ordered with his 
company to Aransas Pass April 10, 1864; ordered to take command of 
Chicago Mercantile Battery June 25, 1864; relieved of command July 5, 
1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

First Lieutenants. 

John B. Peirce. [See quartermaster.] 

Charles H. Chace. Commissioned captain Co. D, One Hundred and 
Thirty-second Pennsylvania Infantry, Aug. 14, 1862 ; mustered out — 
1863; commissioned as first lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy 
Artillery Nov 11, 1S63; re-mustered to date Oct. 7, 1863; originally 
assigned to Co. C; detached as acting regimental quartermaster Dec, 
1S63 ; acting adjutant First and Third Battalions June, 1864; ordered 
on detached service as acting post ordnance officer July 31, 1S64, and 
so borne until Nov. 28, 1864, when ordered on detached service as act- 
ing assistant inspector general, and borne as such until Jan., 1865; 
acting ordnance officer on staff of Gen. Cameron June, 1S65 : mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Second Lieutenants. 

Rowland R. Hazard. Enrolled as private Co. F, First Rhode Island 
Detached Militia, April 17, 1861 ; mustered May 2, 1S61 ; mustered out 
Aug. 1, 1S61 ; commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode 



I56 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Island Heavy Artillery, Nov. 9, 1863 ; assigned to Co. A ; re-mustered 
to date Oct. 10, 1863; reported in Co. M, en route to join Co. A, Jan., 
1864 ; discharged by examining board of officers Dec. 3, 1864. 

John E. Silcocks. Commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery, April 7, 1865; assigned to Co. A; mustered 
June 5, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Charles P. Gay. Enrolled and mustered as sergeant Co. H, Tenth 
Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1862; mustered out Sept. 1, 1862; 
commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy 
Artillery, Nov. 15, 1863; assigned to Co. A; detached as acting regi- 
mental quartermaster Dec, 1863; re-mustered to date Oct. 10, 1863; 
resigned on account of disability April 17, 1864. 

Charles D. Greene. Enrolled as private, Co. G, Third Rhode Island 
Cavalry, March 2, 1864; mustered in March 14, 1S64; discharged to 
receive commission in Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery June 
7, 1864; mustered in July 12, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

First Sergeant. 

Moses F. Brown. Enrolled and mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Quartermaster Sergeants. 

George W. Hamblin. [See regimental quartermaster sergeant.] 
Charles Johnson. Enrolled as private Aug. 15, 1863; mustered Aug. 

2S, 1S63; promoted corporal Sept. 1, 1864; promoted quartermaster 

sergeant Jan. 1, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Sergeants. 

Leonard G. Phenix. Enrolled Aug. 5, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Zebedee Howland. [See sergeant-major.] 
Melville Graham. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

died of disease at Fort Jefferson, Fla., Dec. 6, 1864, while serving sen- 
tence of general court-martial. 
John A. Jenkins. Enrolled Aug. 4, 1863; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863; 

acting battalion drum major from Jan., 1S64, and so borne until March, 

1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
George H. Black. Enrolled as private Aug. 4, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 

1S63: promoted corporal Aug. 28, 1863; promoted sergeant Jan. 1, 

1864; acting battalion sergeant-major from June 1864, and so borne 

until Jan. 1, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Julius P. Hamblin. Enrolled as private Aug. 1, 1S63; mustered Aug. 

2S, 1S63; acting battalion quartermaster sergeant, Dec, 1863, and so 

borne until March, 1864; promoted sergeant Jan. 2, 1864; died of 

disease at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 5, 1864. 
Samuel R. Jarvis. Enrolled as private Aug. 3, 1863; mustered Aug. 

28, 1863; promoted corporal Jan. 1, 1864; sergeant April 5, 1864; 

died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Oct. 23, 1864. 




CAPT. ANTHONY RICHMOND RAWSON 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I 57 

Lewis J. Cobb. Enrolled as private Aug. 4, 1S63 ; mustered Aug, 28, 
1863; promoted sergeant April 5, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Thomas S. Cheese. Enrolled and mustered as private Aug. 29, 1863; 
promoted sergeant April 5, 1S64; died of disease in Corps d'Afriqut' 
Hospital, New Orleans, La., July 8, 1S64. 

Samuel Potter. Enrolled and mustered as private Aug. 28, 1863; pro- 
moted sergeant Sept. 5, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

John E. Carey. Enrolled as private July 30, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 
1S63; promoted corporal April 5, 1S64; promoted sergeant Dec. 13, 
1S64; mustered out Oct. 2. 1S65. 

Simon Niles. Enrolled as private Aug. 10, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 
1S63; promoted corporal Dec. 9, 1864; promoted sergeant Jan. 1, 
1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Corporals. 

Charles Cooley". Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63: 

confined at hard labor at Tortugas, Fla., from April 25, 1864,' until 

April 17, 1S66, when released. No further record. 
Thomas A. Alle"n. Enrolled Aug. 7, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
William.L. Humbert. Enrolled July 30, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 5, 1864. 
Benjamin C Gardner. Enrolled as private Aug. 6, 1863 i mustered 

Aug. 2S, 1S63 ; promoted corporal same date; died of disease at Fort 

Jackson, La.* Aug. 22, 1S64. 
John B. Colbert. Enrolled as corporal Aug. 15, 1S63; mustered Aug. 

2S, 1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Edward B. Simmons. Enrolled July 9, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
George E. Wilson. Enrolled Aug. 15, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Charles Tillman. Enrolled as private Aug. 1, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 

1S63; promoted corporal Jan 1, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Valentine Paine. Enrolled and mustered as private Aug. 31, 1S63; 

promoted corporal Jan. 1, 1S64; died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., 

Sept. 24, 1S64. 
John B. Lane. Enrolled as private Aug. 3, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863 ; 

borne as provost corporal Feb , 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Charles Lent. Enrolled as private Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 

1S63; promoted corporal April 5, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
James A. F. Post. Enrolled as private Aug. 1, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 

1S63; promoted corporal April 5, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Samuel B. Stevens. Enrolled as private July S, 1863; mustered Aug. 2S, 

1S63; promoted corporal April 5, 1864 ; discharged on surgeon's certifi- 
cate, at Brashear City, La., May 5, 1S65. 



I58 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

John Thompson. Enrolled as private Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 

1S63; promoted corporal April 5, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
James F. Duffles. Enrolled as private Aug. 13, 1863; mustered Aug. 

28, 1S63; promoted corporal April 5, 1864; deserted at Camp Parapet, 

La., June 25, 1864. 
William Chase. Enrolled as private Aug. 4, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 

1S63; promoted to corporal April 15, 1864; died of disease at Fort 

Jackson, La., Aug. 13, 1S64. 
James Lecompt. Enrolled as private Aug. 5, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 

1863; promoted corporal Sept. 1, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
John A. Simon. Enrolled as private Aug. 25, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 

1863; promoted corporal Sept. 25, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Augustus Lee. Enrolled as private Aug. 15, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 

1B63 ; promoted corporal Jan. 1, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
James Baker. Enrolled as private Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 

1S63; promoted corporal Jan. 1, 1865; mustered out Oct 2, 1865. 
John A. Cravat. Enrolled as private Aug. 10, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 

1S63; promoted corporal April 1, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Charles Snyder. Enrolled as private July 31, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 

1863; hospital attendant Sept., 1864, and so borne until January, 1865; 

promoted corporal April i, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Musicians. 

John Easton. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

James F. Watson. Enrolled and mustered Aug. 28, 1863; discharged on 
surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Jan. 3, 1S65. 

Artificers. 

Jeremiah Noka. Enrolled as private Aug. 14, 1863; mustered Aug. 2S, 
1863; promoted artificer same date in quartermaster's department 
September, 1864; died at Fort Jackson, La., Oct. 9, 1S64. 

Hiram Huntington. Enrolled as private July 30, 1863; mustered Aug. 
28, 1S63; promoted artificer Oct. 28, 1863; died of disease at Fort Jack- 
son, La., Aug. 27, 1S64. 

Privates. 

Adams, George T. Enrolled Dec. 1, 1863; mustered Jan. 24, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Alexander, Samuel. Enrolled Aug. iS, 1863;. mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Allen, George R. Enrolled Aug. 7, 1863; 'mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Allen, Robert B. Enrolled April 25, 1864; mustered June 24; died of 
disease at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 26, 1S64. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I 59 

Babcock, Charles H. Enrolled Aug. 6, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Babcock, Isaac, Enrolled Aug. 20, 1863; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863; borne 
as sick at Camp Parapet, La., from July 3, 1S64, until Oct. 10, 1864, 
when he died in Corps d' Afrique Hospital, New Orleans, La. 

Banks, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 15, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63; died 
of disease at Camp Parapet, La., June 13, 1S64. 

Barton, James. Enrolled and mustered Jan. u, 1865; mustered out Oct. 
2, 1865. 

Bloomfikld, Isaac. Enrolled Aug. iS, 1863; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863; 
mustered out Oct 2, 1865. 

Boldens William H. Enrolled Aug. 15, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63; 
borne as sick in General Hospital, Providence, R. I., from Dec. 19, 
1863, until Feb., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bond, Francis I. Enrolled Aug. 11, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Braddock, Frederick. Enrolled and mustered Jan. 18, 1S65; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Brown, Cyrus. Enrolled Aug. iS, 1863 ; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63 ; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Cyrus F. 

Brown. Francis J. Enrolled May 10, 1S64; mustered June 24, 1S64; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Brown, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Brown, Jeremiah. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Brown. John W. Enrolled and mustered Jan. 10, 1865; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Brown, Lewis C. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1863; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863; 
hospital attendant Sept. and Nov., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

CiESAR, William. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1S63 ; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63 ; 
hospital attendant from June, 1864, until August, 1S64; in quartermas- 
ter's department November, 1S64, and so borne until January, 1S65 ; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Charles, John. Enrolled Aug. 17, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63; borne 
as absent sick from July 3, 1864, until July 29, 1864, when he died at 
Corps d' Afrique Hospital, New Orleans, La. 

Cisco, Charles. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; mur- 
dered by James Quinn of same company at Fort Jackson, La., July 2, 1S64. 

Clark. James. Enrolled Aug. iS, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Coffee, Touissant M. L. Enrolled Aug. 4, 1863; mustered Aug. 28 
1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Coleman, James L. Enrolled Aug. 1, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63 ; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Oct. 21, 1S64. 



l60 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Corson, John. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; died of 

disease at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 23, 1864. 
Cromwell, George. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. s ; 

Dickson, Richard. Enrolled Aug. 3, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Douglass, Samuel A. D. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 

1S63; confined by sentence of general court-martial to hard labor at 

Tortugas, Fla., until April 22, 1865, when released. No further record. 
Easton, John, Jr. Enrolled and mustered Dec. 14, 1863; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1865. 
Edwards, Howard. Enrolled Aug. 8, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Evans, Eli. Enrolled Aug. 15, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63; mustered 

out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Fisher, Anthony. Enrolled Aug. 3, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; in 

quartermaster's department December, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Foster, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1863; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Francis, Don. Enrolled Aug. 3, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Dec. 10, 1864. 
Freeman, Charles. Enrolled Aug. 12, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

sick in hospital, and so borne until Jul}' 19, 1S64, when he died at 

Corps d'Afrique Hospital, New Orleans, La. 
Freeman, Peter. Enrolled Aug. 3, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

borne as absent sick in General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I., 

from Nov. 1, 1S63, until Feb. 25, 1864, when discharged on surgeon's 

certificate. 
Fry, James. Enrolled Aug. 20, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; died at 

Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 9, 1864. 
Gardner, Benjamin G. Enrolled Aug. 14, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 

1S63; borne as absent sick at Camp Parapet, La., from July 3, 1864, 

until Oct , 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Gardner, Charles H. Enrolled Aug. 10, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 

1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Gardner, Daniel R. Enrolled Aug. 3, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Gardner, Henry J. Enrolled Aug. 12, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 24, 1S64. 
Gardner, Willard C. Enrolled Aug. 6, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 

1863; died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 12, 1864. 
Greene, Albert. Enrolled Aug. 14, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 16, 1864. 
Hector, William H. Enrolled Aug. 20, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 5, 1S64. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). l6l 

Heminway, Frederick A. Enrolled Aug. 15, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 
1863; deserted from regimental hospital, Prov., R. I., Sept. 15, 1S63. 

Henry, Ellis. Enrolled March 5, 1S64; mustered June 24, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Henry, William. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hicks, Joseph S. Enrolled Aug. 7, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; in 
quartermaster's department Jan., 1864, and so borne until March, 
1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Houck, Robert. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Howland, Martin Van. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 
1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hull, George C. Enrolled Aug. 4, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Jan. 3, 1865. 

Hyatt, William H. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Irons, Robert. Enrolled Aug. 11, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; died 
of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Oct. 17, 1864. 

Jackson, William H. Enrolled Aug. 15, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 
died of disease at Brashear City, La., June 21, 1865. 

Johnson, George F. Enrolled Aug. 5, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 
borne as absent sick at Camp Parapet, La., from July 3, 1864, until 
Aug., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, George H. Enrolled Aug. 3, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 
died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Oct. 15, 1S64. 

Johnson, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

King, Randall. Enrolled Aug. 12, 1863; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63; hos- 
pital steward Dec, 1S63, until March, 1S64; hospital attendant July, 
1S64, to Jan., 1865; mustered out Oct 2, 1865. 

Laws, Leven. Enrolled March 31, 1864; mustered June 24, 1864; died 
of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 13, 1S64. 

Lippitt, George. Enrolled Aug. 7, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863; 
died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 8, 1S64. 

Lyons, Joseph. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Lyons, Silas. 1 Enrolled Aug. 15, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Madison, James. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S93; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

McSpaddin, Andrew. Enrolled May 10, 1S64; mustered June 24, 1S64; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



1 " Camp," the pel dog of Co. A, was a pup when they left Providence, R. I. He was 
strapped to Lyons's knapsack, and remained with the company during its term of service. 



l62 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Miller, James J. Enrolled April 28, 1864; mustered June 24, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as John S. Miller. 

Miltier, Solomon. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63; 
died in Corps d'Afrique Hospital, New Orleans, La., June 4, 1S64. 

Mitchell, George. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; 
borne as absent sick in Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, 
R. I., from Nov. 1, 1863, until Feb. 16, 1S64, when he was discharged. 

Myers, Jacob. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; sen- 
tenced to hard labor at Fort Jefferson, Fla. ; sent to New York City, 
where he deserted. 

Myers, William. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63 ; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Nicholas, Samuel. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63; 
hospital attendant Jul}', 1S64, and so borne until Sept., 1S64; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Niles, Edward. Enrolled Aug. 6, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; died 
of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 26, [S64. 

Page, William. Enrolled July 31, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Palmer, David. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2. 1S65. 

Peer, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 15, 1863; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 21, 1864. 

Penar, John. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; in quar- 
termaster's department Oct. 1864, and so borne until January, 1S65 ; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Penner. 

Pierce, George W. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63 ; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 
borne as absent sick in Providence, R. I., from Dec. 19, 1863, until 
Oct. 5, 1S64, when he died of disease. 

Polk, James K. Enrolled Aug. 20, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; on 
provost duty December, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Potter, Frederick A. Enrolled Aug. 4, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 
died of wounds at Fort Jackson, La., July 8, 1S64. 

Potter, Joseph G. [See regimental commissary sergeant] 

Preston, Robert M. [See Robert Rieston.] 

Proffitt, Charles M. Enrolled Aug, 27, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 
1863; died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 13, 1S64. 

Quinn, James. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; exe- 
cuted at Camp Parapet, La., Nov. 25, 1S64, by sentence of general 
court-martial for murder of Charles Cisco, private Co. A. 

Reynolds, Edward. Enrolled Aug. 6, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; 
died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 21, 1864. 

Reynolds, William. Enrolled Aug. 6, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63 ; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Rhodes, Lomon. Enrolled Aug. 26, 1863; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Dec 10, 1864. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 163 

Rieston, Robert. Enrolled May 10, 1S64; mustered June 24, 1S64; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 9, 1S64. 

Also borne as Robert M. Preston. 
Roberts, John* H. Enrolled Aug. iS, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Robinson, Joseph. Enrolled May 16, 1864; mustered June 24, 1S64; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Robinson, Nathaniel. Enrolled Aug. 6, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Robertson. 
Rooms, James. Enrolled Aug. 6, 1S63; mustered, Aug. 28, 1S63; in 

quartermaster's department January, February, and July, 1S64; died 

of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 25, 1S64. 
Rooms, John F. Enrolled Aug. 6, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as John A. Rooms. 
Russell, Charles. Enrolled Aug. 15, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Sherwood, George H. Enrolled July 31, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 

1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Simmons, James E. Enrolled Feb. 24. 1S64; mustered out Oct. 23, 

1S65, at New York City. 
Smith, Isaac. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S65 ; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S65 ; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Smith, Samuel. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Smith, William H. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863 

discharge furnished May 5, 1S66. Also borne as William Smith. 
Telegrove, John. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1S63 

died of disease at Fort Esperanza, Texas, April 2, 1S64. 
Tembroke, Samuel. Enrolled Aug. 15, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863 

died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 13, 1S64. 
Thomas, Thomas C. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Thompson, Anthony. Enrolled Aug. 18, j S63 ; mustered Aug. 28 

1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Thompson, Charles. Bugler. Enrolled Aug. 13,1863; mustered Aug 

28, 1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Thompson, Nathaniel. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S 

1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Valentine, William. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28 

1S63; provost guard Feb., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Wallace, George. Enrolled Aug. 13. 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1S63 

died of disease at Fort Esperanza, Texas, Jan. 14, 1S64. 
Warmsley, Daniel. Enrolled Aug. 6, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863 

died of disease at Fort Esperanza, Texas, April 4, 1S64. 
Warmsley, James. Enrolled Aug. 6, 1S63; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863 

died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 24, 1S63. 



164 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Watson, Richard. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Weeden, Charles. Enrolled Aug. 7, 1S63; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

died in Regimental Hospital, Providence, R. L, Oct. 20, 1S63. 
Weeden, York. Enrolled Aug. 6, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Weeks, Horace. Enrolled Aug. iS, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
West, John D. Enrolled Aug. 7, 1863; mustered Aug. 2S, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as John E. West. 
White, Edward. Enrolled July 31, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Welkins, William E. Enrolled May 10, 1S64; mustered June 24, 1864; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Williams, Charles C Enrolled Aug. 20, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 

1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Williams, Edward. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 26, 1864. 
Williams, John. Enrolled Aug. 11, 1863; mustered Aug. 28, 1863; 

on provost duty Dec, 1S63; hospital attendant May, 1864, and so 

borne until Sept., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



COMPANY B. 
Captains. 

Henry Simon. Commissioned captain Co. C, Fourth Rhode Island 
Infantry, Sept. 13, 1861; mustered in Oct. 30, 1861; resigned at 
Fredericksburg, Va., Aug. 11, 1862; commissioned captain Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Dec. 10, 1863; assigned to 
Co. B; re-mustered to date Sept. 14, 1863; president of a general 
court-martial, Matagorda Island, Texas, March 20, 1864; on general 
court-martial, June 2-16, 1864; borne as absent sick in St. James 
Hospital, New Orleans, La., from Sept. 8, 1864, until Oct. 6, 1864, 
when he died. 

Phanuel E. Bishop. Enrolled and mustered as private Co. H, Ninth 
Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1S62; mustered out Sept. 2, 1862; 
commissioned first lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy 
Artillery Oct. 28, 1863; assigned to Co. B; re-mustered to date 
Sept. 14, 1S63; detailed as acting battalion quartermaster April 18, 
1S64, and so borne until May 27, 1S64; also served as provost marshal 
of St. Mary's Parish, La.; assumed command of Co. B, Sept. 9, 
1864, and so borne in command until Nov., 1S64; promoted captain 
Nov. 9, 1864; mustered as captain Dec. 1, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 
1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 165 

First Lieutenants. 

Joseph C. Whiting, Jr. [See adjutant.] 

Phanuel E. Bishop. [See captain.] 

Charles H. Potter. Enrolled as private Co. C, First Rhode Island 
Detached Militia, April 17, 1861; mustered May 2, 1S61; mustered 
out Aug. 2, 1861; enrolled as sergeant Co. G, Twelfth Rhode Island 
Infantry, Sept. 29, 1S62; mustered Oct. 13, 1S62; promoted sergeant- 
major Nov. 27, 1S62; mustered out as sergeant-major and mustered in 
as second lieutenant to date from Dec. 22, 1S62, and assigned to Co. 
K; promoted for gallant conduct at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va. ; 
mustered out July 29, 1863; commissioned second lieutenant Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Nov. 6, 1863; assigned to Co. 
D; re-mustered to date Sept. 22, 1S63; on detached service in New 
Orleans, La., January, 1S64, and so borne until March, 1864; com- 
missioned first lieutenant Dec. 30, 1864, and transferred to Co. B ; 
mustered in as such Jan. 26, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Second Lieutenants. 

Daniel J. Viall. Enrolled as corporal in Co. K, Ninth Rhode Island 
Infantry, May 25, 1S62; mustered May 26, 1862; mustered out Sept. 2, 
1862; enrolled as sergeant Co. K, Eleventh Rhode Island Infantrv, 
Sept. 24, 1S62; mustered Oct. 1, 1S62; mustered out July 13, 1863; 
commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy 
Artillery Nov. 10, 1863; assigned to Co. B; re-mustered to date Sept. 
14, 1S63; detached as acting ordnance officer Dec. 18, 1863; ordered to 
report to company from detached service April 15, 1864; detached for 
the fortifications by order May 30, 1864; detached by order for ser- 
vice in Chicago Mercantile Battery from June 25, 1864, until July 5, 
1S64; discharged on tender of resignation, by order dated Oct. 19, 1S64. 

Charles L. Stafford. Enrolled and mustered as sergeant Co. B, 
Tenth Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1S62; mustered out Sept. 1, 
1862; commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery Nov. 15, 1863, and mustered in same date; assigned 
to Co. C; mustered out to date May 11, 1S65, to accept promotion 
as first lieutenant May 11, 1865; transferred to Co. I; in temporary 
command of Co. M, July 6, 1S65 ; acting battalion adjutant Sept. 9, 
1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Henry B. Watson. Commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Feb. 2, 1S65, and mustered in March 8, 
1865; assigned to Co. B; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

First Sergeant. 

Max Hassan. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; pro- 
moted corporal Sept. 14, 1863; promoted sergeant Jan. 9, 1S64; pro- 
moted first sergeant Oct. 14, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



l66 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Quartermaster Sergeants. 

John Cajay. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; deserted 

at Brashear City, La., Aug. 23, 1865. 
William H.Jones. Enrolled as private Aug. 18, 1863; mustered Sept. 

14, 1S63; promoted corporal Aug. 19, 1S63; quartermaster sergeant 

Aug. 31, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Sergeants. 

William F. Brewster. Enrolled as private Aug. 27, 1863; mustered 
in and promoted sergeant Sept. 14, 1863 ; deserted at Dutch Island 
Nov. 25, 1863. 

John Van Slyck. Enrolled as private Aug. 16, 1863; mustered in and 
promoted sergeant Sept. 14, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Thomas Howard. Enrolled as private Aug. 21, 1863; mustered in and 
promoted sergeant Sept. 14, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Major Lamott. Enrolled as private Aug. 18, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 
1863; promoted corporal same date; promoted sergeant Dec. 9, 1863; 
mustered out at New York City Oct. 23, 1S65, to date from Oct. 2, 1865. 

Benjamin Allman. Enrolled as private Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 
14, 1863; promoted sergeant Jan. 9, 1864; acting battalion commissary 
sergeant Jan., 1864, and so borne until April, 1S64; in quartermas- 
ter's department May, 1864; in commissary department June 1864, 
and so borne as acting commissary sergeant until Jan., 1865; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

William P. Lyons. Enrolled as corporal Aug. 18, 1863; mustered Sept. 
14, 1863; promoted sergeant Jan. 9, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Frederick G. Jackson. Enrolled as private Aug. 26, 1863; mustered 
Sept. 14, 1863; promoted corporal June 9, 1S64; promoted sergeant 
Oct. 4, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Washington Skinner. Enrolled as private Aug. 26, 1863; mustered 
Sept. 14, 1863; promoted corporal Feb. 27, 1864; promoted sergeant 
Aug. 25, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Corporals. 

Jeremiah May. Enrolled as private July 28, 1863; mustered Sept 14, 

1863; promoted corporal Sept. 14, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
William H. Scudder. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 

1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Brown, John, ist. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Miles Grandy. Enrolled as private Aug. 18, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 

1863; promoted corporal same date; sick in New Orleans, La., July, 

1864, and so borne until Jan., 1865; discharged on surgeon's certificate 

at Brashear City, La., July 20, 1865. 
John D. Palmer. Enrolled as private Sept. 7, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 

1863; promoted corporal Nov. 9, 1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 




CAPT. HENRY K. SOl'THWICK 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 167 

William Gilmore. Enrolled as private Aug. 25, 1863; mustered Sept. 

14, 1S63; promoted corporal Jan. 9, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Albert G. Jackson. Enrolled as private Sept. 7, 1S63; mustered Sept. 

14, 1S63; promoted corporal Jan. 9, 1S64; died of disease at Matagorda 

Island, Texas, May 5, 1S64. 
George W. Lee. Enrolled as private Aug. 25, 1SC13: mustered Sept. 14, 

1S63; promoted corporal Feb. 8, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1 865. 
William Nelson. Enrolled as private Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 

14, 1S63; promoted corporal March 1, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Henry Ray. Enrolled as private Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14. 1863; 

promoted corporal July 16, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Levi B. Henry. Enrolled as private Aug. 25, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 

1S63; promoted corporal July 18, TS64; on detached service at post 

headquarters Dec, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Cornelius Anderson. Enrolled as private Aug. 27, 1863; mustered 

Sept. 14, 1S63; promoted corporal July 19, 1864; died of disease at 

Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 3, 1S64. 
Alfred George. Enrolled as private Aug. 22, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 

1863; promoted corporal Aug. 25, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Charles A. Jackson. Enrolled as private Aug. 3, 1S63; mustered Sept. 

14, 1863; corporal Aug. 31, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Musicians. 

Robert Hollis. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63: orig- 
inally served as private; died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 23, 1S64. 

William Aldrich. Enrolled as private Aug. 26, 1S63; mustered Sept. 
14, 1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Aldridge. 

William H. Jackson. Enrolled as private April 3, 1S65; mustered April 
10, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Buglers. 

John Rhodes. Enrolled Aug. 26, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14,11863; orig- 
inally served as private; died of disease at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. S, 
1864. 

William Bush. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; died 
at Providence, R. I., Oct. 4, 1863. 

Artificers. 

George Mohoney. Enrolled as private Aug. 26, 1S63; mustered Sept. 
14. 1S63; promoted artificer Sept. , 1S64; acting commissary sergeant 
of battalion Sept., 1S64; in quartermaster's department Oct., 1S64, 
and so borne until Jan., 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

John W. Boardley. Enrolled as private July 9, 1S63; mustered Sept. 
14, 1S63; in quartermaster's department Sept., 1S64, and so borne 
until Jan., 1S65 ; artificer July 2, 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



l68 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Privates. 

Allison, Joseph. Enrolled Aug. iS, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14. 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Matagorda Island, Texas, March 
28, 1864. 

Anderson, Samuel. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Apes, Elias G. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Baker, Charles. Enrolled Aug. 26, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
borne as sick at Camp Parapet, La., from July 2, 1864, until Aug. 15, 
1864, when discharged on surgeon's certificate. 

Bane, Joseph. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; de- 
serted at New Orleans, La., Dec. 30, 1863. 

Banks, Charles. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bayard, Jacob. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., June 25, 1864. 

Benson, Benjamin. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 18^5. 

Blake, James L. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; in 
quartermaster's department Nov., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Briggs, James. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Brister, Abxer. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; hos- 
pital attendant July, 1S64 ; died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 23, 1864. 

Brown, John, 2D. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Brown, Samuel. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; hos- 
pital attendant Oct., 1S64: mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Brush, George. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; in 
quartermaster's department Feb. and May, 1S64; also in Oct., 1864, 
and so borne until Jan., 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Burke, Wilson. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Bush, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; died at 
Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 31, 1864. 

Butler, James M. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Butler, John. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; borne 
as absent sick in United States Barracks Hospital from Jan. 2, 1864, 
until June 4, 1S64, when he died in New Orleans, La. 

Clayneal, William H. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 
1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Cummings, William. Enrolled Aug. 7, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
in quartermaster's department Sept., 1S64, and so borne until Jan., 
1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as William H. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 1 69 

Dalson, William. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Davis, Abraham. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 17, 1864. 

Davis, James. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Degrant, Charles. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Degroot, David. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Oct. 11, 1864. 

Demond, Francis. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Dixon, William. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; dis- 
charged from service by Special Orders dated Jan. 6, 1S66. Also 
borne as Dickson. 

Dove, Isaiah. Enrolled Sept. 7, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Dubois, Edward. Enrolled Aug. iS, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
borne as absent sick from Nov. 26, 1864, until Jan. 7, 1865, when dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate. Also borne as Debois. 

Dubois, Hiram. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; died 
at New Orleans, La., July 15, 1S64. 

Dubois, James. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Ellis, Charles H. Enrolled Aug. iS, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
in quartermaster's department Sept., 1S64; and so borne until Jan., 
1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Everson, Peter. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 5, 1864. 

Ford, John. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Forrest, Nathaniel. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
deserted at New Orleans, Sept. 29, 1S64. Also borne as Forest. 

Frisby, John. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Brashear City, La., May 9i 1865. 

Garrison, John. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hallam, Chester H. Enrolled Aug. 20, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63 ; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., March 1, 1S65. 

Harden, James II. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1863 ;. mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hicks, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hill, James. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; died at 
Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 21, 1864. 



170 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Holmes, Charles. Enrolled Aug. 9, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Helmes. 

Holmes, Nelson. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., June 6, 1S64. 

Howard, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hunter, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hutchinson, Mathias. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 
1S63; teamster Feb., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jackson, Cornelius. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jackson, David. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jackson, Frederick. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jackson, Peter, ist. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Dec. 10, 1S64. 

Jackson, Peter, 2d. Enrolled Aug. 17, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jackson, Theodore. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
sick in New Orleans, La., May, 1S64, and so borne until Sept. 13,1864, 
when he died. 

Johnson, Jacob. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, John. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, Joseph. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
hospital attendant June, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Johnson, Scott. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Johnson, William H. Enrolled March 9, 1S65; no other record; name 
not borne on rolls of the War Department, Washington, D. C. 

Jones, Cato. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; dis- 
charged furnished Jan. 27, 1S66. 

Jones, George H. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jones, Joshua F. Enrolled Aug. iS, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jones, Seth. Enrolled Aug. 26, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

King, George. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Low, Charles H. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I 7 I 

Mandeville, "William. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 
1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Manning, Miller. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
in commissary department June, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Martin, Thomas. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 12, 1S64. 

Merrick, John. Enrolled Aug. iS, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14. 1S63; borne 
as absent sick in Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I., 
from Nov. 1, 1863, until Jan. 23, 1S64, when he died. 

Moore, Francis. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Moore, James H. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Brashear City, La., Sept. 1, 
1865. 

Moore, James P. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; de- 
serted from Dutch Island, R. I., Nov. 3, 1S63. 

Moore, John H. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Moore, Lyman G. Enrolled Aug. 28, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Moore, Richard. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
hospital attendant Sept., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Minson, Theodore E. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 
1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Nichols, Alfred. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Norton, John. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Paine, Philip. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; team- 
ster February, 1S64 ; also in May, 1864, and so borne until July, 
1S64; in quartermaster's department September, 1S64; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Paris, Alexander. Enrolled July 26, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Peterson, Robert. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
deserted at New Orleans, La., Jan. 1, 1S64. 

Phillips, Alexander. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 
1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

QUASH, Charles J. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Roberts, Harvey S. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Jan. 3, 1S65. 

Robinson, Jacob. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



172 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Ross, John F. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; hos- 
pital attendant Jan., 1864, and so borne until April, 1864; in quarter- 
master's department Nov. and Dec, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Simmons, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Smith, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 9, 1864. 

Smith, John H. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; pro- 
vost guard Feb., 1S64; borne as hospital attendant Aug. and Sept., 
1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Smith, Robert. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; hos- 
pital attendant Sept., 1864, and so borne until Jan., 1S65; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Smith, William. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863 ; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 ; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Sommersett, Levi. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Summerset. 

Stafford, Charles H. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 
1S63; discharge furnished Feb. 13, 1866. 

Stewart, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 26, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Steward. 

Stump, William H. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
provost guard Feb., 1S64; in quartermaster's department Nov. and 
Dec, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Thompson, James. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Tuttle, Samuel. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; died 
at Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 21, 1S64. 

Vandevere, George. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Wales, John Enrolled Aug. 21, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Washington, George. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Weeks, Nathaniel. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

White, Edward. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; hos- 
pital attendant Jan., 1S64, to Jan., 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Williams, Alfred. Enrolled Aug. 26, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Williams, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
died at Matagorda Island, Texas, April 18, 1864. 

Williams, John. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
sick in Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I., Nov. 1, 
1S63, to Feb. 25, 1864, when discharged on surgeon's certificate. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I 73 

Williams, Michael. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63 ; 

died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 31, 1S64. 
Williams, Richard. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 

borne as absent sick from July 2, 1S64, until Sept. 17, 1S64, when he 

died in New Orleans, La. 
Wilson, Aaron. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; in 

quartermaster's department Oct., 1S64; and so borne until Dec, 1864; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Wilson, George H. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Wilson, Samuel. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 8, 1S64. 
Wright, Francis A. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1S63; mustered Segt. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Young, Francis. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Youngs. 



COMPANY C. 
Captain. 

George Bucklin. Enrolled and mustered as private Co. D, Tenth 
Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1862; mustered out Sept. 1, 1862; 
commissioned second lieutenant Co. F, Twelfth Rhode Island Infantry, 
Oct. 9, 1862; mustered Oct. 13, 1S62 ; transferred to Co. A March 7, 
1S63; transferred to Co. H June 2, 1S63; commissioned and mustered 
as first lieutenant and transferred to Co. C June 15, 1S63; mustered 
out July 29, 1S63; commissioned captain Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery Nov. 10, 1863; assigned to Co. C; re-mustered to 
date Sept. 23, 1863; honorably discharged Aug. 24, 1865. 

First Lieutenants. 

Charles II. Mumford. Commissioned and mustered as first lieutenant 
Co. I, Tenth Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1S62; detached for 
special service June 30, 1862; mustered out Sept. 1, 1S62; commis- 
sioned first lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Nov. 

12, 1863; assigned to Co. C; re-mustered to date Oct. 20, 1863; borne 
as absent sick from July 2, 1864, until July 20, 1864, when honorably 
discharged on surgeon's certificate. 

Alfred H. Barker, Jr. Enrolled and mustered as private Co. D, Tenth 
Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1S62 ; mustered out Sept. 1, 1S62; 
enrolled as private Co. I, Eleventh Rhode Island Infantry, Sept. 22. 
1S62; mustered in Oct. 1, 1862; mustered out July 13, 1863; commis- 
sioned first lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Nov. 

13, 1863; assigned to Co. C; re-mustered to date Oct. 1, 1S63; board- 
ing officer at Fort Jackson, La., July 5, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



174 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

George W. Weeden. Commissioned and mustered as first lieutenant 
Co. G, Second Rhode Island Infantry, June 6, 1S61 ; promoted captain 
and transferred to Co. F July 22, 1S61 ; resigned to accept appointment 
as master's mate in the navy Oct. 1, 1S61 ; resigned Aug. 5, 1S64 ; enrolled 
as sergeant of Rhode Island Hospital Guards Nov. 13, 1862; mustered 
Dec. 6, 1862; promoted first sergeant March 1, 1863; discharged Dec. 2, 
1S63, to accept commission as second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery Nov. 7, 1S63; assigned to Co. C; re-mustered to date 
Oct. 11, 1S63; appointed acting battalion quartermaster First Battalion 
Dec. 7, 1863, and so borne until April 22, 1S64, when detached by order 
as acting assistant quartermaster Pass Cavallo, Texas, and so borne 
until relieved by order dated July 1, 1864; borne as battalion quarter- 
master and post commissary from July 3, 1864, until Feb. 8, 1865 ; pro- 
moted first lieutenant May 11, 1865; borne as battalion adjutant from 
June 6, 1S65, until Sept. 16, 1865 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Second Lieutenants. 

George W. Weeden. [See first lieutenant.] 

William Harrison. Commissioned April 7, 1S65, Fourteenth Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery; assigned to Co. C; mustered May 19, 1S65; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Walter Wheeler, Jr. Enrolled as private Co. E, First Rhode Island 
Detached Militia, April 17, 1S61 ; mustered May 2, 1861 ; mustered out 
Aug. 2, 1S61 ; enrolled and mustered as first sergeant Co. K, Third 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Aug. 20, 1861 ; mustered Oct. 5, 1S61 ; 
promoted second lieutenant July 8, 1862 ; commissioned first lieuten- 
ant and mustered in as such to date Jan. 21, 1S63; resigned July 6, 
1863 ; commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy 
Artillery, November, 1863; assigned to Co. C; re-mustered to date 
Oct. 5, 1S63 ; detached as acting battalion quartermaster (First Bat- 
talion) Dec. 7, 1S63 ; resigned and honorably discharged on surgeon's 
certificate March 27, 1864. 

Alanson A. Williams. Enrolled and mustered as private Battery B. 
First Rhode Island Light Artillery, Aug. 13, 1S61 ; corporal Oct. 15, 
1862; wounded Dec. 13, 1862, at Fredericksburg, Va. ; sergeant Feb. 
5, 1863; first sergeant Dec. 4, 1S63; re-enlisted Dec. iS, 1863; dis- 
charged May iS, 1864, to accept commission as second lieutenant 
Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery; assigned to Co. C; mus- 
tered July 12, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

First Sergeants. 

John W. Pearson. Enrolled as first sergeant Aug. 28, 1863; mustered 

Sept. 14, 1S63; provost sergeant Feb., 1S64, and borne as on provost 

duty until May, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
John H. Jordan. Enrolled as corporal Sept. 1, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 

1S63; promoted sergeant from corporal Nov. 1, 1S64; promoted first 

sergeant June 1, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 1 75 

Quartermaster Sergeant. 

William Gray. Enrolled as private Aug. 24, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14,1863; 
promoted quartermaster sergeant Jan. 1, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Sergeants. 

William II. Addison. Enrolled as private Sept., 1863; mustered Sept. 

14, 1S63; promoted to sergeant same date; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
William Furgerson. Enrolled as private Aug. 27, 1S63; inustered Sept. 

14, 1S63; promoted sergeant Dec. 13, 1S63 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Samuel Thompson. Enrolled as private Aug. 26, 1S63; mustered Sept. 

14, 1S63; promoted sergeant Jan. 1, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
William D. Harris. Enrolled as private Aug. 27, 1863; mustered Sept. 

14, 1863; promoted sergeant Aug. 1, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
George F. Johnson. Enrolled as private Sept. 1, 1863; mustered out 

Sept. 14, 1S63 ; promoted corporal April 1, 1S64; promoted sergeant 

Nov. 1, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Thomas Lucas. Enrolled as private Aug. 26, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 

1S63; promoted corporal Dec. 13, 1S63 ; promoted sergeant Feb. 1, 

1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Corporals. 

Pardon S. Sweet. Enrolled as private Aug. 2S, 1S63; mustered Sept. 
14, 1S63; promoted corporal; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Elias Van Hoeson. Enrolled as private Sept. 1, 1S63; mustered Sept. 
14, 1S63; promoted corporal Nov. 20, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Francis W. Young. Enrolled as private Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 
14, 1S63; promoted corporal July 1, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

John H. Monroe. Enrolled as private Aug. 24, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 
1863; promoted corporal Oct. 1, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

William H. Hewlitt. Enrolled as private Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 
14. 1S63; promoted corporal Oct. 1, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jacob Townsend. Enrolled as private Sept. 3, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14. 
1863; promoted corporal Nov. 11, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Also borne as Townsand. 

Solomon Johnson. Enrolled as private Sept. 5, 1863; mustered Sept. 
14, 1S63 ; in commissary department Sept., 1S64; promoted corporal 
Nov. 20, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Giles Freeman. Enrolled as private Aug. 28, 1S63 ; mustered Sept. 14, 
1S63; promoted corporal Dec. 13, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Fredeeick L. Stay. Enrolled as private Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 
14, 1S63; in quartermaster's department Sept., 1864; promoted cor- 
poral Feb. 23, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as FRED- 
ERICK D. Stay. 

Lewis Latz. Enrolled as private Sept. 4, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
promoted corporal June 1, 1865 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Francis McKeel. Enrolled as private Sept. 5, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 
1S63; promoted corporal Sept. 5, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



176 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

James I. Bowers. Enrolled as private Sept. 1, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 
1863; promoted corporal Sept. 5, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Samuel Buchanan. Enrolled as private Aug. 26, 1863; mustered Sept. 
14, 1863; promoted corporal; deserted at New Orleans, La., Jan. 2, 1864. 

Musicians. 

Samuel Ellsworth. Enrolled Sept. 7, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Nathaniel Edwards. Enrolled Sept. 7, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

died at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 1, 1864. 

Artificers. 

Edward A. Sojjires. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Thomas Holmes. Enrolled Sept. 2, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
borne as sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, La., 
from May 24, 1S64, until Oct. 14, 1864, when he died. 

Wagoner. 

William Allen. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; hos- 
pital attendant Sept., 1864, and so borne until Nov., 1864; discharged 
on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Dec. 10, 1864; died in 
New Orleans, La., Dec. 18, 1864. 

Privates. 

Anderson, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

hospital attendant April, 1864, and so borne until Jan., 1865 ; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Anthony, William. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Banyer, John E. Enrolled Aug. 28, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

hospital attendant April, 1864, and so borne until June, 1864; deserted 

at Camp Parapet, La., July 1, 1864. 
Bartlett, Roswell S. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 

1863; discharged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La,, Jan. 3, 

1865. 
Benedict, Isaac. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Bowman, Joseph. Enrolled Sept. 3, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Boycan, Daniel. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Brown, David. Enrolled Aug. 31, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Brown, Thomas. Enrolled Sept. 7, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Brown, Washington. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1S63; mnstered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, iS6«;. 




CAPT. PHANUEL E. BISHOP 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 1JJ 

Buley, William. Enrolled Aug. n, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
deserted at Dutch Island, R. I., Dec. S. 1863. 

Burr, William. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Butler, Thomas. Enrolled Sept. 2, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Cisco, John. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Clay, Henry. Enrolled Sept, 4, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Colwell, Daniel. Enrolled Aug. 2, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Cornell, Benjamin H. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 
1S63; discharged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Casey, La., March 
28, 1S64. 

Crawford, Henry. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1861;. 

Cufeer, Stephen N. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 6, 1864. 

Demming, William. Enrolled Sept. 9, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 19, 1864. 

Dempsey, Charles H. Enrolled Sept. 2, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

DeWolf, William R. Enrolled and mustered Dec. 31, 1864; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Dillon, Oliver. Enrolled Aug. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Earles, John. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Easton, George W. Enrolled Aug. 31, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Everson, Martin. Enrolled Aug. 31, 1863: mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Farmer, Stephen. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Farnum, James. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Fisher, Lewis. Enrolled Sept. 5, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; died 
on board steamer CaAarvda, Dec. 20, 1863. 

Freeman, George W. Enrolled July 2S, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Gaines, John. Enrolled Aug. 28, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; died 
at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 24, 1864. 

Gardner, Erastus. Enrolled Jan. 10, 1865; mustered Jan. 10, 1S65; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



1^8 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Geer, Harvey. Enrolled Aug. 15, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; died 

at Fort Jackson, La., July 19, 1864. 
Grames, Frederick C. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 

1863; died at Dutch Island, R. I., Nov. 7, 1863. 
Green, Robert H. Enrolled Sept. 11, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

discharged on surgeon's certificate at Brashear City, La., June 10, 

1865. 
Green, Sylvanus. Enrolled and mustered Dec. 30, 1864; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Griffin, George. Enrolled July 8, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Harris, William H. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 

died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 3, 1864. 
Hasbrook, Peter. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 

discharge furnished Jan. 27, 1866. 
Hasbrook, William. See William Hosbrook. 
Hazard, Edward. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 

discharged on surgeon's certificate at Matagorda, Texas, March 28 

1864. 
Helme, James E. Enrolled Sept. 3, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Hendrickson, Isaac. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 

deserted at Providence, R. I., Dec, 1863. 
Hogarth, Henry. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 

in quartermaster's department April, 1864, and so borne until June 

1864; in quartermaster's department Nov., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2 

1865. Also borne as Henry Hogan. 
Hosbrook, William. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 

in quartermaster's department April, 1864, and so borne until June 

1864; in same department Sept., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Howard, William. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Hurd, Sidney D. Enrolled Sept. 2, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Stephen D. Hurd. 
Irving, William. Enrolled Aug. 28, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

sick in U. S. Barracks Hospital, New Orleans, La., May, 1864, and so 

borne until Sept.. 1S64; died at Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 12, 1864. 
Jackson, George. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Jackson, Hiram. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Jackson, James. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 21, 1864. 
Jackson, John H. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 1 79 

Jackson, Thomas. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Jackson, William C. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 25, 1S64. 

Johnson, John II. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, Lobeiski. Enrolled Sept. 4, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
discharge furnished Dec. 9, 1S65. Also borne as Sobieski. 

Jones, Pleasant. Enrolled Sept. 4, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Kelley, George. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
in quartermaster's department, and so borne until March, 1864; con- 
fined at hard labor at Fort Jefferson for rest of term April 25, 1864; re- 
leased by Special Order dated Feb. 23, 1S66, and discharge furnished 
with remark, " Without pay or allowance.'' 

Lavine, Jacob. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; dis- 
charge furnished Jan. 19, 1866. 

Lindsay, William. Enrolled and mustered Jan. 10, 1865; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Lowe, Ishmael R. Enrolled Aug. 28, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
sick in hospital, New Orleans, La., from May 25, 1864, until June 21, 
1S64, when he died at Corps d'Afrique Hospital, New Orleans, La. 

Mason, Isaac Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; died at 
Pass Cavallo, Matagorda, Texas, May, 1864. 

Mathews, Esau. Enrolled Sept. 12, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

McBride, James. Enrolled Sept. 4, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct 2, 1S65. Also borne as James G. McBride. 

Miller, Jacob. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; in 
quartermaster's department Jan., iS64,and so borne until March, 1S64; 
in quartermaster's department June, 1S64; mustered out in New York 
City, Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Moody, Joseph. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
borne as absent sick from May 25, 1S64, until May 31, 1S64, when he 
died at Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, La. 

Moore, Henry I. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Henry J. Moore. 

Mott, William H. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; in quartermaster's depart- 
ment Oct., 1864, and so borne until Jan., 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Niles, Daniel W. G. Enrolled Sept. 2, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Owens, Lee. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Perry, Daniel D. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



l80 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Peterson, John. Enrolled Sept. i, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Pierce, George S. Enrolled July 9, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

in quartermaster's department Feb. and May, 1864; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1865. 
Pierson, George W. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

in quartermaster's department Oct. and Nov., 1S64; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Pool, Edward L. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Pool, John. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; sentenced 

by general court-martial to confinement at Tortugas, Fla., for rest of 

term of enlistment ; order dated July, 1864; discharge furnished Feb. 

13, 1866. 
Powers, John. Enrolled July 29, 1863 ; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 ; died at 

Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 23, 1864. Also borne as John J. Powers. 
Ramson, Richard. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Randall, John. Enrolled and mustered Jan. 3, 1865; mustered out Oct. 

2, 1865. 
Reed, Charles. Enrolled July 9, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Charles C. Reed. 
Reed, Charles P. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 

died at Fort Jackson, La., Dec, 1864. 
Rhodes, Alfred E. Enrolled Sept, 4, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Richardson, James. Enrolled Sept. 5, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Ricks, Harrison. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 

died at Corps d'Afrique Hospital, New Orleans, La., Jan. 6, 1864. 
Ricks, Stephen J. Enrolled Sept. 3, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; died 

at Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 10, 1864. Also borne as Stephen T. Ricks. 
Riley, Seaman A. Enrolled Sept. 7, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Robbins, John H. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Robinson, John. Enrolled and mustered Jan. 21, 1865; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1865. 
Rogers, Charles H. Enrolled Aug. 25, 1863; mustered out Sept. 14, 

1863 ; confined at Fort Jefferson, Fla., for desertion, for rest of term, by 

sentence of general court-martial, order dated July 4, 1864; unexecuted 

portion of sentence remitted by order dated Aug. 16, 1865 ; Dec. 5, 

1865, dishonorably discharged to date Nov. 29, 1865. 
Ruggles, George H. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). l8l 

Sarvent, William. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 31, 1864 

Schuyler, Wellington. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863 ; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Washington Schyler. 

Seamans, Lorenzo. Enrolled Sept. 4, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Simmons, Henry. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Simons, Ephraim. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Simons, Silas. Enrolled Sept. 2, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; in quar 
termaster's department Oct. and Nov., 1S64 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865 

Smith, Alfred E. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63 
borne as absent sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, 
La., from May 24, 1S64, until Aug. 5, 1S64, when he died. 

Smith, Jacob. Enrolled Aug. 31, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; died at 
Fort Jackson, La., Dec. 10, 1864. 

Sneider, John. Enrolled Sept. 3, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Squires, William H. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Starr, Henry. Enrolled Sept. 4, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; de- 
serted at Providence, R. I., Sept. 15, 1863. 

Stoop, Thomas I. Enrolled Aug. 24, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Tell, William. Enrolled Sept. 2, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Dec. 10, 1S64. 

Thompson, Thomas G. Enrolled Aug. 2S, 1863 ; mustered Sept. 14, 
1863; deserted at Camp Parapet, La., June 20, 1S64. 

Townsend, Daniel. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1S63: mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., April 21, 1S65. 

Treadwell, William. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Van Riper, John. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1S63 ; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 10, 1864. 
Also borne as Vanniper. 

Van Riper, Robert. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Vanniper. 

Washington, George H. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 
1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Watkins, James A. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Wheeler, John. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; sen- 
tenced by general court-martial, order dated April 25, 1S64, to confine- 
ment at Tortugas, Fla., and so borne until released by order dated Feb. 
5, 1866. No further record. 



182 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

White, John D. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Williams, Abraham. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 
borne as absent sick in Corps d'Afrique Hospital, New Orleans, La. 
from May 24, 1S64, until Aug. 3, 1864, when he died. 

Williams, Edward. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Williams, James. Enrolled Aug. 28, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Wilson, Andrew D. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863 
borne as sick from May 25, 1864, until June 7, 1S64, when he died in 
Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, La. 

Wilson, William H. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Brashear City, La., June 10, 1865. 

Woods, Peter. Enrolled Sept. 1, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Woods, Samuel. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
provost guard Feb., 1S64; died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 18, 1864. 

Wright, John E. Enrolled Aug. 13, 1S63; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Young, Samuel. Enrolled Sept. 2, 1863; mustered Sept. 14, 1863; died 
at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 7, 1S64. 



COMPANY D. 
Captain. 

Joel Metcalf, Jr. Enrolled and mustered as first sergeant Co. F, Tenth 
Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1862; mustered out Sept. 1, 1862; 
commissioned first lieutenant Co. H, Eleventh Rhode Island Infantry, 
Oct. 1, 1862; mustered in same date ; mustered out as first lieutenant 
Dec. 31, 1862; promoted and mustered in as captain Co. H, Jan. 1, 
1863; mustered out July 13, 1863; commissioned captain Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Oct. 27, 1S63; assigned to Co. D; re- 
mustered to date Sept. 22, 1S63; borne on general court-martial from 
Oct. 6, 1S64, until Nov., 1S64; borne on general court-martial at 
New Orleans, La., from Nov. 5, 1864, until Jan., 1865; borne on 
court-martial Sept. 28, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

First Lieutenants. 

Thomas B. Briggs. Enrolled as private for the Mexican War in Co. G, 
Fourth Illinois Infantry in June, 1S46; present at the battles of Vera 
Cruz and Cerro Gordo ; mustered out May 26, 1847; enrolled as first 
sergeant Co. A, First Rhode Island Detached Militia, April 17, 1861 ; 
mustered May 2, 1S61 ; mustered out Aug. 2, 1861 ; commissioned cap- 
tain Co A, Third Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Aug. 20, 1861 ; mus- 




LIEUT. ZEPHANIAH BROWN 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 183 

tered same date ; in command of Fort Welles from May, 1S62, until July, 
1862 ; resigned May 22, 1S63 ; commissioned first lieutenant Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Oct. 24, 1S63; re-mustered to date Sept. 
22, 1S63; assigned to Co. D by order dated Dec. 6, 1S63, having been 
transferred from Co. E ; detached as acting ordnance officer Jan. 15. 
1S64, and so borne until March, 1S64; detached as acting ordnance 
officer Thirteenth Army Corps, March iS, 1S64, and so borne until 
June 19, 1S64, when appointed acting ordnance officer District of Car- 
rollton, and borne as such until Aug., 1864; borne as absent sick from 
Sept. S, 1S64, until Nov., 1S64; borne as acting commissary of sub- 
sistence and acting assistant quartermaster of post, Fort Jackson, La., 
from Feb. 8, 1865, until May, 1S65; acting battalion quartermaster of 
the First Battalion at Brashear City ; acting assistant quartermaster of 
the post, July 29, 1S65, until relieved Sept. 16, 1865; mustered out Oct. 
2, 1S65; commissioned second lieutenant Third United States Infantr\ , 
June iS, 1S67; post adjutant at Fort Lyon, Col.," from Dec. 5, 1S67, 
until April 5, 1S69; assigned to Fourteenth Infantry April 27, 1S70; 
promoted first lieutenant Feb. 9, 1874; acting assistant quartermaster 
Camp Stambaugh, Wyoming, from Oct., 1874, until Jan., 1S75; post 
adjutant Fort Hall, Idaho, from July, 1S75, to Oct., 1876; acting assist- 
ant quartermaster, acting commissary of subsistence, and post treas- 
urer, from Oct., 1S76, to March, 1877; acting assistant quartermaster 
and acting signal officer from Feb., 1S78, to Aug., 1S78: inspecting 
Indian supplies at Lemli Indian Agency, Nov. and Dec, 1S7S; ordered 
before the retiring board at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, May 19. 1S79; 
ordered to his home as unfit for service May 29, 1S79; ordered before 
a retiring board at Fort Omaha, March 22, 18S1 ; ordered to Fort 
Lyon, Col., for light duty Oct., 1SS1 ; on duty as member and judge 
advocate of courts-martial; ordered to Fort Garland, Col., on court- 
martial duty Sept. 6, 1SS2 ; retired from active service March 15, 1SS3. 
Zephaniah Brown. Enrolled and mustered as private Co. K, Tenth 
Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1S62 ; subsequently promoted corporal ; 
mustered out Sept. 1, 1S62; commissioned first lieutenant Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Nov. 10, 1863; assigned to Co. D ; re- 
mustered to date Oct. 24, 1S63; acting battalion adjutant Dec, 1863, 
and so borne until June 1, 1S65, date of resignation; acting assistant 
quartermaster June, 1S64; borne as battalion and post adjutant from 
July 30, 1S64, until Dec, 1S64; acting assistant adjutant general Dec. 
25, 1S64, until ordered to Brashear City, La.; resigned June 1, 1S65. 

Second Lieutenants. 

Edward Aborn. Enrolled as private Co. D, First Rhode Island Detached 
Militia, May 30, 1S61; mustered May 2, 1S61 ; mustered out Aug. 2, 
1S61 ; commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery Oct. 28, 1S63; assigned to Co. D; mustered in Oct. 28, 



I84 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

1863; detached for service in Co. G, Dec, 1S63; returned to Co. D 

Jan. 12, 1864; borne as absent sick from Oct. 6, 1864, until Jan., 1865; 

discharged for disability Jan. 22, 1865. 
Nelson A. Morton. Commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode 

Island Heavy Artillery, Jan. 31, 1865; assigned to Co. D; mustered 

Jan. 31, 1865; resigned June 3, 1865. 
Charles H. Potter. [See first lieutenant Co. B.] 

First Sergeant. 

Robert F. Nicola. Enrolled as private Sept. 12, 1863; mustered Sept. 
22, 1863; first sergeant Oct. 5, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Quartermaster Sergeant. 

Nelson Harrison. Enrolled as private Aug. 22, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 
1863; promoted quartermaster sergeant; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Sergeants. 

William H. Porter. Enrolled Aug. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863 
discharged on surgeon's certificate Jan. 24, 1865. 

William H. Wright. Enrolled Sept. 9, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Lewis J. Fry. Enrolled as private Sept. 15, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22 
1863; promoted sergeant Oct. 5, 1S63; acting battalion sergeant-major 
Dec, 1863, and so borne until March, 1864; died at Fort Jackson 
La., Aug. 27, 1864. 

Henry Humans.. Enrolled as private Sept. 17, 1863; mustered Sept. 22 
1863; promoted sergeant from corporal Jan. 1, 1S64; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Isaac Smedus. Enrolled as private Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 
1863; sergeant from corporal Jan 1, 1864; died at Corps d'Afrique 
Hospital, New Orleans, La., Aug. 17, 1864. Also borne as Smerdus. 

Philip Post. Enrolled as private Sept. 16, 1863 ; mustered Sept. 22, 
1863; promoted corporal ; acting ordnance sergeant from Jan., 1864, 
until May, 1864; promoted sergeant Sept. 1, 1864; acting ordnance 
sergeant Nov. and Dec, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Benjamin M. Purdy. Enrolled as private Sept. 17, 1863; mustered 
Sept. 22, 1863; promoted sergeant from corporal Sept. 1, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hezektah Chester. Enrolled as private Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 
22, 1863; promoted sergeant from corporal Feb. 1, 1865; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Henry Walker. Enrolled as private Sept. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 
1863; promoted corporal Nov. 1, 1864; promoted sergeant Feb. 1, 
1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Corporals. 

Leonard Brickhurst. Enrolled as private Sept. 15, 1863; mustered 
Sept. 22, 1S63; promoted corporal; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 1 85 

Isaac Anderson. Enrolled as private Sept. 1, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 

1863; promoted corporal Jan. 1, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
James H. Clmmings. Enrolled as private Sept. 17, 1S63; mustered Sept. 

22, 1863; in quartermaster's department Dec, 1863; promoted corporal 

Jan. 1, 1864; in quartermaster's department Oct., 1864; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Gabriel Harris. Enrolled as private Sept. 11, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 

1863; promoted corporal Jan. 1, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Joshua Smith. Enrolled as private Sept. S, 1S63; mustered Sept. 2:, 

1S63; promoted corporal Jan. 1, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Samuel Congdon. Enrolled as private Sept. 11, 1S63; mustered Sept. 

22, 1S63; promoted corporal April 6, 1S64 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
James H. Talbot. Enrolled as private Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 

22, 1863; promoted corporal Sept. 1, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
William H. Watson. Enrolled as private Sept. 16, 1S63; mustered 

Sept. 22, 1863; corporal Sept. 1, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Joseph II. VoRSE. Enrolled as private Sept. 16, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 

1863; promoted corporal Feb. 1, 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
George D. Smith. Enrolled as private Sept. 9, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 

1863; promoted corporal Feb. 1, 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
John H. Brice. Enrolled as private Sept. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 

1863; borne as sick in New Orleans, La., from July 3, 1S64, until Oct., 

1864; hospital attendant Oct., 1S64 ; promoted corporal May 6, 1S65; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Musician. 

Charles Edwards. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
deserted at Providence, R. I., Dec. 1, 1S63. 

Artificers. 

Burnett Wright. Enrolled as private Sept. 10, 1S63; mustered Sept. 

22. 1S63; battalion armorer Nov., 1864, and so borne until Jan., 

1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Thomas Waples. Enrolled Sept. 10, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

originally served as private; in quartermaster's department May, 

1864; again in same department, Sept., 1864, and so borne until 

Dec, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Privates. 

Abbott, William L. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 20, 1S64. 
Allen, George F. Enrolled and mustered Aug. 9, 1S64; discharged on 

surgeon's certificate at Brashear City, La., Aug. 9, 1865. 
Ambler, Theodore. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Anderson, Frederick. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 

1863; provost guard Feb., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



1 86 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Andrews, Calvin D. Enrolled Sept. 19, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Anthony, Henry G. Enrolled Sept. 18, 1S63 ; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 9, 1864. 

Anthony, Jerome. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1863; mustered Sept. 22,1863; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 16, 1S64. 

Archer, James. Enrolled Sept. 14, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
hospital attendant Oct., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Atkins, Alonzo. Enrolled Sept. 10, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Bailey, James A. Enrolled Sept. 13, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
hospital attendant April, 1S64, and so borne until Dec, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Baker, Lewis, Enrolled Sept. 18, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; died 
at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 22, 1S64. 

Bates, Jacob W. Enrolled Sept. 15, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; in 
quartermaster's department Oct., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bell, John. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; died at 
Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 20, 1864. 

Bliss, Samuel. Enrolled and mustered Aug. 13, 1864; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bogart, Samuel. Enrolled Aug. 21, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bouse, Calvin. Enrolled Sept. 18, 1863; mustered Sept 22, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Briggs, Charles H. Enrolled Sept. 15, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Buell, Francis. Enrolled Sept. 11, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Cables, Frederick. Enrolled Aug. 8, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Caesar, Daniel. Enrolled and mustered Aug. 1, 1864; discharged on 
surgeon's certificate from Corps d'Afrique General Hospital at New 
Orleans, La., June 10, 1865. 

Carr, Leveran. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; died 
at Fort Esperanza, Texas, March 30, 1864. Also borne as Severan. 

Carter, John. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Castle, James. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; sen- 
tenced by general court-martial April 25, 1864, to ten years hard labor 
at Fort Jefferson, Fla., upon the charge 'Assault with intent to kill; " 
discharge furnished April 10, 1866, with facts of the case endorsed 
thereon. Discharged to date Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Cisco, Thomas. Enrolled Sept. 12, 1863; mustered Sept. 22,1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 187 

Clark, John. Enrolled Sept. 10, 1S63; mustered Sept. 23, 1S63; died 
at General Hospital, Matagorda Island, Texas, May 19. 

Correll, Jacob. Enrolled Sept. 6, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Curtiss, Robert. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Dabney, Samuel. Enrolled Sept. S, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1865; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

DAILSY, GuSTAVUS. Enrolled Sept. 19, 1S63: mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 9. 1S64. 

Davis, Stephen. Enrolled Sept. S, 1S63; mustered Sept, 22, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Dklee, Daniel. Enrolled Sept. 14, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Dubois, James. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

DUMPSON, George. Enrolled Sept. 18, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Edwards, David. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., July 31, 1S64. 

Ewell, Thomas H. Enrolled Sept. 9, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Fields, William W. Enrolled July 22, 1S64; mustered July 22, [864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Finger, Charles. Enrolled Sept. 15, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22. 18631 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Freeman, Albert J. Enrolled Sept. 1, iSf>3; mustered Sept. 22. 18^3; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 20, 1864. 

Freeman, Charles. Enrolled Sept. iS, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22. 1863J 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Gardner, George E. Enrolled and mustered Aug. iS, 1864 ; discharged 
on surgeon's certificate at Brashear City, La., Aug. iS, 1865. 

Gardner, Joseph C. Enrolled and mustered Aug. iS, 1S64; died at 
Brashear City, La., June 24, 1S65. 

Gibus, John. Enrolled Sept. 5, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863: in 
quartermaster's department Dec, 1863, Feb., 1S64, April. 18641 antl 
so borne until July, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Giles, James. Enrolled Sept. 9 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; borne as 
absent sick from May 19, 1S64, until June 15, 1S64, when he died in 
Corps d'Afrique Hospital, New Orleans, La. 

Goffney, Robert. Enrolled Sept. iS, 1863; mustered Sept. 22. 18^3; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Borne also as Gaffnev. 

Greene, Daniel. Enrolled Sept. 9, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered ont Oct. 2, 1865. 

Greene, George H. Enrolled Sept. 17, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



1(55 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Greene, Henry H. Enrolled Sept- 8, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hall, John. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63 ; deserted 
at Providence, R. I., Sept. 23, 1863. 

Harris, George. Enrolled and mustered Sept. 12, 1864; discharged on 
surgeon's certificate at New Orleans, La., Sept. 11, 1865. 

Harrison, Richard. Enrolled Sept 9, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
borne as absent sick in United States Barracks Hospital, New Orleans, 
La., from Jan. 2, 1S64, until June, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hazard, Frank W. Enrolled and mustered July 23, 1864; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Herbert, William H. Enrolled Sept. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as William H. Hurlbert. 

Hicks, Henry. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hicks, John. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; died at 
Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 18, 1S64. Also borne as John J. Hicks. 

Hinkman, John. Enrolled Sept. 18, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., June 12, 1864. 

Hogan, Frederick. Enrolled Sept. 12, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
in quartermaster's department Feb. and April, 1864; granted furlough 
and borne as absent sick from Sept. 21, 1864, until Nov. 9, 1S64, when 
he died at Gentral Hospital at New Orleans, La., Nov. 9, 1864. 

Jackson, Guilford. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Brashear City, La., Sept. 1, 1S65. 

Jackson, James M. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
died at Fort Jackson., La., Sept. 9, 1864. 

Jackson, Joseph, ist. Enrolled Aug. 2S, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jackson, Joseph, 2d. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jackson, Lanson. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
borne as absent sick from Jan. 2, 1S64, until July 7, 1864, when he 
died at Corps d'Afrique Hospital, New Orleans, La. 

Jackson, Leonard. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
borne as absent sick from July, 1864, until Sept. 21, 1864, when he 
died at Corps d'Afrique Hospital, New Orleans, La. 

Jackson, Lewis. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept 22, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jackson, Philo. Enrolled Aug. 8, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jarvis, Lewis. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; hos- 
pital attendant July, 1864; discharged on surgeon's certificate at 
Brashear City, La., Sept. 1, 1S65. 

Johnson, Edward. Enrolled Sept. 9, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Oct., 1864. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). [89 

Johnson, George. Enrolled Aug. 26, 1S64; mustered Aug. 26, 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Johnson, Henry. Enrolled Sept. S, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 

in quartermaster's department Sept., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S63. 
Johnson, Nathan. Enrolled Sept. S, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22. 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Jones, Abraham. Enrolled Sept. 9, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63: died 

at Fort Esperanza, Texas, April 5, 1S64. 
JONES, George W. Enrolled Sept. iS, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 24, 1864. 
Jones, Mervin. Enrolled Sept. 9, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1SC3; 

absent sick July, 1S64, and so borne until Oct. 3, 1864, when he died 

in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, La. 
Kingsley, Henry. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Knox, Samuel. Enrolled Aug. S, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Lawrence, John. Enrolled Sept. 17, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863: in 

quartermaster's department Sept., 1S64, and so borne until Jan., 1S65; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Lloyd, Charlhs. Enrolled Sept. 17, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863: 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Lunn, Amos A. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63: died 

at Fort Jackson, La., Oct. 21, 1S64. 
Miller, Austin. Enrolled Sept. S, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; in 

quartermaster's department Feb., 1S64; borne as teamster June, 1864; 

in quartermaster's department Sept., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2. 1S65. 
Miller, Townsknd. Enrolled Sept. 17, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Moore, Charles C. Enrolled Sept. iS, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 

died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 11, 1S64. 
Moore, Henry. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; in 

quartermaster's department Sept., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Nelson, George. Enrolled and mustered July 2S, 1864; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Norris, George. Enrolled Sept. 10, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

died at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 27, 1S64. 
Page, Poke. Enrolled and mustered July 18, 1864; died at Brashear City, 

La., June 24, 1S65. 
Palmer, Oliver. Enrolled Aug. 11, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

died at General Hospital, New Orleans, La., Aug. 29, 1S64. 
Parcells. James. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Peters, John H. Enrolled Sept. S, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863: died 

at Fort Jackson, La.. Aug. 29, 1864. Also borne as John W. Peters. 



I9O FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Pugsley, Daniel. Enrolled Sept. 15, 1S63 ; mustered Sept. 22, 1863 ; 
provost guard Feb., 1S64; deserted at Fort Esperanza, Matagorda 
Island, Texas, April 19, 1S64. 

Randall, Hannibal. Enrolled Aug. 27, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 25, 1S64. 

Randall, Richard. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Oct. 31, 1S64. 

Ray, Kemp. Enrolled Sept. 18, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1893; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Reynolds, Albert. Enrolled Sept. 13, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
died at New Orleans, La., Dec. 29, 1863. 

Ringgold, Charles. Enrolled and mustered Aug. 26, 1864; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as transferred from the Twenty-ninth 
Connecticut Infantry, by order dated Aug. 7, 1S65. Name not found 
on the rolls of that regiment. 

Robinson, William. Enrolled Sept. 6, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
deserted at Camp Parapet, La., June 15, 1864. 

Roe, Isaac. Enrolled Sept. 20, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Ross, James A. Enrolled and mustered July 22, 1864; mustered out Oct. 
2, 1865. 

Rushmore, John. Enrolled Sept. 16,1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Savage, George. Enrolled Aug. 8, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Sayers, George A. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Sazers. 

Seaman, Elias. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; died 
at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 22, 1864. 

Seaman, John J. Enrolled Sept. iS, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Brashear City, La., Sept. 1, 1S65. 

Selsie, Robert. Enrolled July 25, 1863 ; mustered Sept. 22, 1863 ; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Simons, John. Enrolled July 16, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; died at 
Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 28, 1864. • 

Simons, William H. Enrolled July 16, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 20, 1S64. 

Smith, George. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Smith, Stephen. Enrolled Sept. 14, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Squires, Leander. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
hospital attendant Feb., 1864, and so borne during the greater part of 
the time until Dec, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Stephens, John. Enrolled Sept. 17, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). IOJ 

Stevens, Ashael. Enrolled Sept. 10, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
borne on furlough at New Orleans, La., for four days, from Oct. 4, 
1864; discharge furnished Jan. 9, 1S66. 

Summerset, Lemuel. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Oct. 10, 1864. 

Sysco, William II. Enrolled Sept. 6, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Taylor, Prince Albert. Enrolled July 9, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 
1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Teneycke, Cornelius H. Enrolled and mustered Aug. 17, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Thompson, John II. Enrolled Sept. 9, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863. 
Confined at Fort Jefferson, Fla., for one year, by order dated Jan. 31, 
1865. Records from the War Department state, " Ordered to be re- 
leased and furnished transportation to report to the chief mustering 
officer of his State who will furnish him with a discharge with the 
facts of the case endorsed thereon, and transportation to his home. 
Instruction from adjutant-general's office, dated Dec. 4, 1865." Noth- 
ing additional found. 

Thorn, Floyd. Enrolled Sept. iS, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 5, 1864. 

Tossett, Charles J. Enrolled as private Sept. 14, 1863; mustered 
Sept. 22, 1863; acting regimental drum major Nov., 1863, and so 
borne until Feb., 1S64; died at Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 20, 1S64. 
Also borne as Charles I. Tossett. 

Townsend, John. Enrolled Sept. 18, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 30, 1S64. 

Waddington, James H. Enrolled July 13, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 
1863; died at Fort Jackson, La., Oct. 17, 1S64. 

Waite, Lafayette. Enrolled Sept. 7, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Warren, Charles H. Enrolled Sept. 20, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Fort Jackson, La., Nov. 6, 1S64. 

Waters, Frederick. Enrolled Aug. 15, 1S63 ; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. >, 1S65. 
Webb, Joseph. Enrolled and mustered July 29, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 

2, 1S65. 
Weldf.n, Stephen. Enrolled Sept. 19, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

died at Fort Jackson, La., Aug. 6, 1S64. 
West William H. Enrolled Sept. 15, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

died at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 22, 1S64. 
Williams, Charles. Enrolled Sept. 14, 1S63: mustered Sept. 22, 1S63; 
hospital attendant Aug., 1S64, and so borne until Dec, 1S64; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Williams, Ebenezer. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1S63 ; mustered Sept. 22, 
1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



ig2 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Williams, French. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Williams, Isaac. Enrolled Sept. 12, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Williamson, Abraham. Enrolled Sept. 20, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 

1S63; teamster Feb., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as 

Abraham W. Williamson. 
Winslow, Robert. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1S63; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Woolsey, Austin. Enrolled Sept. 6, 1863; mustered Sept. 22, 1863; 

died at Fort Jackson, La., Sept. 5, 1S64. 



COMPANY E. 
Captain. 

George W. Cole. Enrolled as private Battery G, First Rhode Island 
Light Artillery, Nov. 11, 1S61 ; mustered Dec. 2, 1S61; promoted cor- 
poral; discharged for disability Dec. 2, 1S62; commissioned captain 
Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Nov. 10, 1863 ; assigned to 
Co. E; re-mustered to date Oct. 20, 1863; president general court- 
martial May 25, 1S64; provost marshal Parish of Plaquemines March, 
1S65, and later the Parish of St. Bernard until his muster out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

First Lieutenants. 

William S. Dyer. Enrolled as quartermaster sergeant Battery B, First 
Rhode Island Light Artillery, Aug. 13, 1861 ; mustered same date; 
discharged for disability Dec 1, 1S62 ; commissioned first lieutenant 
Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Dec. 2, 1863; assigned to 
Co. E; re-mustered to date Oct. 16, 1S63; detached as acting ord- 
nance officer, Post Plaquemine, La., from March 27, 1864, until 
Sept., 1S64; detached by order as assistant engineer Sept. 13, 1864, 
and so borne until relieved by order dated Dec. 3, 1S64 ; acting post ord- 
nance officer at Donaldsonville La., from June, 1865, until Sept., 
1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1862. 

John E. Wardlow. Enrolled and mustered as private Battery B, First 
Rhode Island Light Artillery, Aug. 13, 1S61 ; promoted corporal Oct. 
1, 1S61 ; sergeant Dec. 15, 1861 ; first sergeant May 12, 1862; borne 
on detached service Artillery Brigade, Second Army Corps, from May 
17, 1S63, until Oct., 1863; commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Oct. 16, 1S63; first lieutenant Dec. 3, 
1S63; re-mustered to date Nov. 6, 1S63; assigned to Co. E; borne as 
acting battalion quartermaster, Second Battalion, from Jan. 21, 1864, 
until March, 1S64; borne on detached service as post quartermaster 
and commissary from March 27, 1864, until Nov. 6, 1S64, when relieved 
by order; also post commissary at Donaldsonville, La., from June 
25, 1865, to Aug. 29, 1865; discharged for disability Aug. 29, 1865. 




1.1 KIT. IOIIN E. WARDLOW 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I93 

Second Lieutenants. 

Warren N. DeVolve. Enrolled as corporal Co. B, Twelfth Rhode 
Island Infantry, Sept. 19, 1862; mustered Oct. 13, 1S62; promoted 
color sergeant and transferred to Co. G, Jan. 1, 1S63; borne on de- 
tached service at Nicholasville, Ky., from April 7, 1863, until July, 
1863; mustered out July 29, 1S63; commissioned second lieutenant 
Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Dec. 2, 1S63; assigned to 
Co. E; re-mustered to date Oct. 9, 1863; resigned and honorably 
discharged for disability May 22, 1S64. 

Herbert D. Leavitt. Enrolled as private in Co. E, Fifth Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery, Nov. 1, 1S61 ; mustered Dec. 16, 1S61 ; pro- 
moted sergeant and transferred to Co. H, Jan. 10, 1S63; first sergeant 
Feb. 11, 1S63; borne on detached service at draft rendezvous. New 
Haven, Conn., from Aug. 14, 1S63, until Dec, 1863; commissioned 
second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Dec. 14, 
1863; assigned to Co. K; mustered in Dec. 22, 1863; transferred to 
Co. E, Jan. 19, 1S64; detached as acting aid-de-camp on staff of Maj.- 
Gen. Stephen A. Hurlburt, Oct. 22, 1S64, and so borne until Jan., 1S65: 
on board of survey Feb. 10, 1865 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

William H. Currie. Enrolled and mustered as private Battery D, First 
Rhode Island Light Artillery, Feb. 24, 1862; sick from Dec 30, 
1S62, to Feb. 9, 1S63, when discharged for disability on surgeon's 
certificate; enrolled as private Troop G, Third Rhode Island Cavalry, 
Jan. 4, 1864; mustered March 14, 1864; on detached service in Rhode 
Island May, 1864, and so borne until Aug., 1864; discharged Sept. 22, 
1S64, to accept commission as second lieutenant in Fourteenth Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery; assigned to Co. E; mustered Oct. 19, 1S64; 
on garrison court-martial Jan. 4, 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2. 1S65. 

First Sergeant. 
William H. Still. Enrolled as private Sept. 24, 1S63; mustered Oct. 
5, 1863; promoted first sergeant; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Quartermaster Sergeant. 

William Holliday. Enrolled as private Sept. 26, 1S63; mustered Oct. 
5, 1863; promoted quartermaster sergeant; acting battalion quarter- 
master sergeant Jan., 1S64, and so borne until March, 1S64; detached 
as quartermaster sergeant of post at Plaquemine, La., March 30, 1S64, 
and so borne until Jan., 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Sergeants. 

Barney W. Holden. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Aug. 22, 1S64. 

Willis Jones. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1S63: mustered Oct. 5, 1S63: died in 
Battalion Hospital, Plaquemine, La., June 21, 1S64, having been acci- 
dentally shot by the guard. 



194 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Charles Parker. Enrolled Sept. 25, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 

promoted sergeant from corporal March 27, 1864; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1865. 
George C- Morgan. Enrolled Sept. 27, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 

promoted sergeant from corporal July 7, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2,1865. 
Alexander Atwood. Enrolled as private Oct. 2, 1863 ; mustered Oct. 

5, 1863; promoted corporal Aug. 22, 1864; promoted sergeant Aug. 31, 

1864; died in Battalion Hospital at Donaldsonville, La., Aug. 28, 1865. 
James W. Richardson. Enrolled as private Oct. 3, 1863 ; mustered Oct. 

5, 1863; promoted corporal Aug. 22, 1864; promoted sergeant March 

8, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Benjamin F. Cooley. Enrolled Sept. 21, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 

promoted sergeant from corporal June 12, 1865; deserted at Plaque- 
mine, La., June 16, 1S65. 
George King. Enrolled as private Sept. 22, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5' 

1S63; promoted corporal Aug. 22, 1S64; promoted sergeant June 19, 

1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
George H. Johnson. Enrolled as private Sept. 28, 1863; mustered Oct. 

5, 1863; promoted corporal Aug. 22, 1864; promoted sergeant July 8, 

1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
James H. Freeman. Enrolled and mustered as private Aug. 8, 1864; 

promoted corporal June 12, 1S65; promoted sergeant Sept. 12, 1865; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Corporals. 

William S. Peterson. Enrolled Sept. 22, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

William Snowden. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Aug. 22, 1864. 

Albert Crowell. Enrolled Sept. 23, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Benjamin Barker. Enrolled as private Sept. 27, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 
1863; promoted corporal March 27, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Adam Larkins. Enrolled as private Oct. 2, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
promoted corporal March 27, 1864; discharged on surgeon's certifi- 
cate at Corps d'Afrique Hospital, New Orleans, La., Sept. 11, 1865. 

Emery B. Turner. Enrolled as private Oct. 2, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 
1863; promoted corporal July 7, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Oliver Jones. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; P ro " 
moted corporal March 8, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Thomas W. Jones. Enrolled as private Oct. 3, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 
1S63; promoted corporal June 12, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Thomas C. Burton. Enrolled and mustered as private Feb. 3, 1865; 
promoted corporal June 19, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Elisha Barker. Enrolled Sept, 27, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; pro- 
moted corporal July 8, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I95 

Henry T. Smith. Enrolled as private Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 
1863; promoted corporal July 8, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Franklin Taylor. Enrolled as private Sept. 30, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 
1S63; promoted corporal July S, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

John C Seymore. Enrolled as private Oct. 3, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 
1S63; promoted corporal Sept. 12, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Musicians. 

George B. Hall. Enrolled Sept. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Cornelius King. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; died 

in Battalion Hospital, Plaquemine, La., June 29, 1864. 
Philip Williams. Enrolled as private Oct. 3, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 

1S63; promoted musician June 1, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Artificers. 

John Jackson. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1865; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

William H. Smith. Enrolled Sept. 22, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Wagoner. 

Austin E. Elkey. Enrolled as private Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 
1863; teamster Dec, 1863; died in Battalion Hospital at Plaquemine, 
La., July 10, 1864. 

Privates. 

Andrews, Martin P. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Artist, Thomas W. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 13, 1865; mustered 

out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Barker, David. Enrolled Sept. 27, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Barnett, John. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 7, 1865; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1865. 
Brant, George. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 8, 1S65; mustered out 

Oct. 2. 1S65. 
Brooks, William. Enrolled Sept. 27, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Broughman, Harrison. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Brown, Edward. Enrolled, Sept. 26, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Burch, John. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 22, 1S65; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Butler, Thomas. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 6, 1S65; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Cesar, William H. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



I96 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Cambridge, William H. Enrolled Sept. 29, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 
1863 ; died in Battalion Hospital at English Turn, La., March 15, 1864. 

Cannan, Liown. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Lione. 

Carey, George. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Carey, James. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Carl, Charles H. Enrolled Oct. 3, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Castle, Charles. Enrolled Sept. 25, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Clark, Richard. Enrolled Sept. 23, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Clayton, Charles L. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
died in Battalion Hospital at English Turn, La., March 6, 1S64. 

Cooper, Ridgeway W. Enrolled Sept. 21, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Cotton, George. Enrolled Sept. 23, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Crawford, Hezekiah. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Cromwell, Wlliam H. Enrolled Sept. 23, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Crooks, Silas M. Enrolled Sept. 29, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Dailey, Amos. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate Jnne 14, 1865. 

Demars, Geraldo. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
died in Battalion Hospital at Plaquemine, La., Nov. 24, 1864. 

Demon, John. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; died in 
Battalion Hospital at Plaquemine, La., Feb. 8, 1865. 

Deyo, Charles. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5,1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate July 10, 1865. 

Dickerson, Thomas. Enrolled Sept. 21, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Dunkerson, Nelson. Enrolled Sept. 21, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Elliott, Philip. Enrolled Sept. 10, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Fortune, John. Enrolled Sept. 28, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Fountain, William. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
in quartermaster's department Dec, 1S63; discharged on surgeon's 
certificate June 20, 1S64. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 197 

Frazier, Edward. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, iSf^. 

Frazier, Jerome. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Frazier, John. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; sick in 
General Hospital, New Orleans, La., March, 1S64, and so borne until 
July, 1864 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Frazier, John H. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863; died in Battalion Hospital 
at Plaquemine, La., June 27, 1S64. 

Freeman, Andrew. Enrolled Sept. 2S, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Freeman, Charles. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 21, 1865; deserted at 
Donaldsonville, La., July 12, 1865. 

Freeman, James D. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Gainor, John. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

GlLMORE, Walter F. Enrolled Oct. i, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Grant, William A. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
died in Battalion Hospital at Plaquemine, La., Sept. 9, 1S64. 

Greene, Charles. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate June 14, 1S65. 

Greene, George. Enrolled Sept. 26, 18^3; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; died 
in Battalion Hospital at Plaquemine, La., June 6, 1S64. 

Griffin, Joseph. Enrolled Sept. 28, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hardy, Charles H. Enrolled Sept. 21, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; 
provost guard April, 1864 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hasbrouck, DeWitt C. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 
1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hasbrouck, Richard. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hicks, Richard. Enrolled Sept. 22, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hickson, James. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hill, Henry A. Enrolled Sept. 28, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; mus 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Holcomb, Augustus M. Enrolled Sept. 22, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 
1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hubbard, David H. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hubbard, Henry. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Irving, Lewis. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 25, 1S64 : mustered out 
Oct. 2, i86q. 



I98 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Jackson, Charles A. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863^ 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

James, James. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jefferson, William A. P. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 
1S63; discharged on surgeon's certificate June 14, 1865. 

Johnson, Charles. Enrolled Sept. 23, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Aug. 22, 1864. 

Johnson, Frederick. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
borne as acting sergeant-major Second Battalion, from Sept. 8, 1864, 
until Nov., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Johnson, Jacob. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863 ; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 ; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, James. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 ; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Johnson, Jeremiah. Enrolled Sept. 23, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
absent with leave from March 25, 1864, until May, 1864; hospital 
attendant June, 1864, and so borne until Jan., 1865; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, William. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Kell, Henry. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Kellman, James H. Enrolled Sept. 2, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
died in Battalion Hospital at English Turn, La., March 15, 1864. 

Lewis, John. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Maxwell, Thomas. Enrolled Oct. 1, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

McClow, Abner. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

McClow, James. Enrolled Sept. 23, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; died 
in Battalion Hospital at English Turn, La., Feb. 4, 1864. 

Mitchell, George. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; 
in quartermaster's department Dec, 1S63; nurse in hospital Jan. r 
1S64; discharged on surgeon's certificate July 10, 1S65. 

Morgan, Henry A. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Newby, Stephen A. H. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
hospital assistant Dec, 1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Oliver, Timothy. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Timothy F. Oliver. 

Pierson, William. Enrolled and mustered March 1, 1S64; assigned to 
Co. E from Co. M, May, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Potter, William H. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Sept. 29, 1864. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). I99 

Randall, James P. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
hospital assistant Dec, iSfVj; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Ray, John B. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1863: mustered Oct. 5, 1863; died on 
board the United States Army hospital transport Gen. J. K. Barnes, 
Sept. 22, 1865. 

Rodgers, Hiram. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Dec. 27, 1864. 

Sands, John. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 18, 1865; mustered out Oct. 
2, 1865. 

Saunders, Aaron. Enrolled Sept. 23, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 ; 
died in Battalion Hospital at Dutch Island, R. I., Nov., 1863. 

Saunders, Gilbert. Enrolled Sept. 23, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Seamans, Field. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Sept. 29, 1S64. 

Searles, Elias. Enrolled Oct. 3, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Searles, Samuel. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; in 
commissary department Oct., 1S64, and so borne until Jan., 1865 : 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Seignior, John. Enrolled Sept. 27, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1875. Also borne as John L. 

Seymore, Alfred. Enrolled Sept. 28, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Seymore, James. Enrolled Sept. 28, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Seymore, William H. Enrolled Oct. 1, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863: 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Silvey, Edward. Enrolled Sept. 23, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Selvey. 

Smith, Jacob. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Smith, Lemuel H. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1S62 ; 
died in Battalion Hospital at Dutch Island, R. I., Jan. 4, 1864. 

Spencer, Philip. Enrolled Sept. 2S, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Springs, William H. Enrolled Aug. 18, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 : 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Stephens, Morgan. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1S63 ; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Strong, Seth L. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate March 15, 1S65. 

Teabout, Jacob H. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., June 20, 1S64. 
Thomas. George H. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



200 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Thomas, Henry. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Thomas, John. Enrolled Oct. 1, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; died in 
Battalion Hospital at Donaldsonville, La., Sept. 6, 1S65. 

Thompson, Lorenzo. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863 ; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 ; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Tierce, Simeon A. Enrolled Sept. 28, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
acting battalion commissary sergeant Jan., 1S64; in quartermaster's 
department Feb., 1S64; died in Battalion Hospital at Plaquemine, 
La., July 8, 1864. 

Treadwell, William H. Enrolled Oct. 3, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 
1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Tucker, David G. Enrolled Sept. 25, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Twist, William. Enrolled Sept. 22, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Van Alstyne, William H. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 
1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Van Brackle, Archibald. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 
1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Van Dorn, Isaac H. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Van Houter, Thomas J. Enrolled Sept. 21, 1S63; mustered Oct. 5, 
1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Van Schoick, Warren. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Voorse, Daniel. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Waters, Richard Enrolled Sept. 30, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Watts, George E. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 
died in Regimental Hospital at Camp Parapet, La.. Sept. 17, 1865. 

Whipper, Thomas. Enrolled Sept. 26, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Williams, Alfred. Enrolled Oct. 1, 1863 ; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Williams, Jonas. Enrolled Sept. 24, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Wilson, George H. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1863 ; mustered Oct. 5, 1863 ; in 
post quartermaster's department Plaquemine, La., from March 23, 
1864, until Jan., 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Wilson, Jeremiah. Enrolled Sept. 22, 1863; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Wooby, Samuel. Enrolled Sept. 23, 1863 ; mustered Oct. 5, 1863; hos- 
pital attendant Sept., 1S64, and so borne until Jan., 1865 ; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 




LIEUT. C HENRY BARNEY 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 201 

COMPANY F. 

Captain. 

Charles C. Cragin. Enrolled and mustered as private Co. B, Tenth 
Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1S62 ; mustered out Sept. 1, 1862; 
enrolled and mustered as private Co. D, Second Rhode Island Infan- 
try, July 8, 1863 ; discharged to accept commission as captain Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Dec. 10, 1S63 ; mustered Dec. 
12, 1863; assigned to Co. F; president of a garrison court-martial 
Jan. 4, 1S65; president of a hoard to examine into the condition of 
destitute persons drawing rations from the government at Post 
Plaquemine, March 21, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

First Lieutenants. 

C. Henry Barney. Enrolled as private Co. A, Fifth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery, Dec. 14, 1S63; mustered in Dec. 27, 1861 ; promoted 
successively to corporal, sergeant, first sergeant; on detached service 
from July, 1863, until Jan., 1S64, when he was discharged to accept 
commission as second lieutenant in the Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery; subsequently commissioned first lieutenant Nov. 
15, 1S63; mustered to date Dec. 2, 1863; temporarily assigned to the 
command of Co. K, and transferred to Co. F, Jan. 20, 1S64, by gen- 
eral order dated Dec. 26, 1863; detached as battalion adjutant Jan. 21, 
1864, and so borne until March, 1864; detached as post adjutant by 
order dated March 27, 1S64, and so borne until Aug. 24, 1864; ordered 
on special duty as battalion adjutant Aug. 24, 1S64; borne on special 
duty as battalion and post adjutant from Sept. 23, 1864, until Jan., 
1865; acting regimental adjutant from May 16 to June 28, 1865; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

William H. Chenery. Enrolled as private, Co. D, Fifth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery, Dec. 11, 1S61 ; mustered Dec. 16, 1861 ; promoted 
corporal May 1, 1862; promoted sergeant June 13, 1863; on detached 
service at Draft Rendezvous, New Haven, Conn., from Aug., 1863, 
until Sept., 1863; discharged to accept commission as second lieuten- 
ant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Sept. 21, 1863; subse- 
quently received commission as first lieutenant Dec. 15, 1S63; mustered 
in Dec. 21, 1863; assigned to Co. F; on court-martial at Plaquemine, 
La., May 25, 1S64; temporarily assigned to Co. E, June 17, 1864; 
temporarily assigned to command of Co. G, Nov. 25, 1864; on garri- 
son court-martial Dec. 15, 1864 ; on garrison court-martial Jan. 4, 1865 ; 
temporarily assigned to Co. G, Feb. 28, 1865 ; temporarily assigned 
to the command of Co. H, from March 13, 1865, until May 1, 1865; 
temporarily assigned to Co. E May 1, 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865 ; 
ordered to the command of Co. E, Oct. 5, 1S65, and continued in 
that capacity until the disbandment of the regiment, Nov., 1865. 



202 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Second Lieutenants. 

Lester S. Hill. Enrolled and mustered as private Battery E, First 
Rhode Island Light Artillery, Sept. 30, 1S61 ; promoted corporal Aug. 
5, 1862; discharged to accept commission as second lieutenant Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Dec. 15, 1S63; mustered Dec. 
30, 1863; assigned to Co. F; on court-martial at Plaquemine, La., 
May 25, 1864; detailed as instructor to the enlisted men in light 
artillery drill; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Commissioned surgeon 
with the rank of major of the First Rhode Island Volunteers in the 
war with Spain, and mustered May 7, 1S9S. 

John A. Reynolds. Enrolled and mustered as private Co. B, Tenth 
Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1S62 ; mustered out Sept. 1, 1S62 ; 
enrolled and mustered as corporal Co. I, Eleventh Rhode Island In- 
fantry, Sept. 15, 1862; mustered Oct. 1, 1S62; mustered out July 13, 
1863; commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery Dec. 18, 1863 ; mustered Dec. 23, 1863; assigned to 
Co. E, Dec. 26, 1863; transferred to Co. F, Jan. 14, 1864; on board 
of survey July 29, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

First Sergeant. 

George D. Kelly. Enrolled as private Oct. 10, 1863: mustered Oct. 
20, 1863 ; promoted sergeant Oct. 25, 1S63; promoted first sergeant 
Jan. 9, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Kelley. 

Quartermaster Sergeants. 

David P. Brown. Enrolled as private Oct. 8, 1863 ; mustered Oct. 20, 
1863; promoted sergeant Oct. 25, 1863; promoted quartermaster ser- 
geant; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Peter Dickerson. Enrolled as private Oct. 4, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 
1863; promoted quartermaster sergeant March 30, 1864: mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Sergeants. 

Major G. Price. Enrolled as private Oct. 8, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 
1863; promoted sergeant Oct. 25, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Thomas J. Steward. Enrolled as private Oct. 10, 1863; mustered Oct. 
20, 1863; promoted corporal Dec. 5, 1863; promoted sergeant Jan. 9, 
1864; color-bearer Aug., 1864, and so borne until Jan., 1865; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Robert McKinnis. Enrolled as private Oct. 8, 1863; mustered Oct. 20. 
1863; promoted corporal Oct. 25, 1863; promoted sergeant Feb. S, 
1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Robert McKennis. 

Orason L. Charles. Enrolled as private Oct. 15, 1863; mustered Oct. 
20, 1863; promoted corporal Feb. 3, 1S64; promoted sergeant March 
30, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Samuel Smith. Enrolled as private Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 
1863; promoted corporal Feb. 22, 1864; promoted sergeant Aug. 21, 
1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 203 

Corporals. 
Lanson E. Hicks. Enrolled Oct. 13, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 

died at Plaquemine, La., July II, 1S64. 
Silas D. Johnson. Enrolled as private Oct. 6, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 

1863; discharged on surgeon'6 certificate at English Turn, La., 

March 20, 1S64. 
Aaron Lewis. Enrolled as private Oct. 16, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 

1S63; promoted corporal Oct. 25, 1863; regimental quartermaster's 

clerk Dec, 1S63, and borne as same at Dutch Island and Camp Para- 
pet, La., until Aug., 1S64 ; mastered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
John H. Jackson. Enrolled as private Oct. iC, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 

1S63; promoted corporal Feb. 22, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Brown, John E. Enrolled as private Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 

1S63; promoted corporal March 10, 1S64; died at Plaquemine, La. , 

Aug. 31, 1S64. 
Charles A. Colden. Enrolled as private Oct. 17, 1S63: mustered 

Oct. 20, 1863; corporal March 30, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
George Elkey. Enrolled as private Oct. 6,1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 

corporal March 30, 1864; died at Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 4, 1865. 
Benjamin Staats. Enrolled as private Oct. 4, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 

1S63; promoted corporal March 30, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Joseph Leonard. Enrolled as private Oct. 6, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 

1S63; promoted corporal Jan. 2, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
James Owen. Enrolled as private Oct. 16, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 

promoted corporal March S, 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Daniel L. Weeks. Enrolled as private Oct. 13, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 

1S63 ; promoted corporal March 8, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Lewis Strong. Enrolled as private Oct. 7, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 

1S63; promoted corporal June 6, 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
William Robinson. Enrolled as private Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Oct. 

20, 1S63; promoted corporal June 7, 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
William H. Reasonf.r. Enrolled as private Oct. 16, 1S63; mustered 

Oct. 20, 1S63; corporal July 24, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Musicians. 

Travers C. Babcock. Enrolled Oct. 6. 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863: 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

John H. Wilson. Enrolled Oct. 8, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Artificers. 

William Sharp. Enrolled as private Aug. 21, 1863: mustered Oct. 20, 
1S63; promoted artificer Oct. 31, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Alexander Waterford. Enrolled as private Oct. S, 1863; mustered 
Oct. 20, 1S63; July, 1S64, on extra duty as blacksmith in Engineer 
Corps, and so borne until Jan., 1S65; promoted artificer March 9, 
1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



204 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Wagoner. 

Charles Johnson. Enrolled Oct. 7, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
borne as wagoner Dec, 1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Privates. 

Adams, Isaiah. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Anderson, Andrew J. Enrolled Oct. 6, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Anderson, Lewis. Enrolled Oct. 8, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Anderson, William P. Enrolled Oct. 6, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Jan. 4, 1S65 ; 
died at Plaquemine, La., Jan. 28, 1S65. 

Armstrong, George. Enrolled Oct. 8, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bailey, Grant. Enrolled Oct. 8, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; deserted 
at Plaquemine, La., May 19, 1S65. 

Banyan, George W. Enrolled Oct. 10, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
deserted at Dutch Island, R. I., Jan. 17, 1864. 

Bates, Franklin. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
deserted at Dutch Island, R. I., Oct. 26, 1863. 

Berton, John. Enrolled Oct. 9, 1S63 ; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Bond, Samuel. Enrolled Oct. 9, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863 ; deserted 
at Dutch Island, R. I., Oct. 26, 1863. 

Boulding, George T. Enrolled Oct. 15, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Brown, George H. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Carter, William H. Enrolled Oct. 13, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 
died at English Turn, La., March 13, 1S64. 

Champlin, Charles E. Enrolled Oct. 6, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Clark, Leonard H. Enrolled Oct. 15, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Clawson, Samuel. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Clauson. 

Claxton, Robert. Enrolled Oct. 8, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 
died at Plaquemine, La., Sept. 9, 1S64. 

Collins, William. Enrolled Oct. 15, 1S63 ; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Connor, Robert. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
with Pioneer Corps Nov., 1864, and so borne until Jan., 1865; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., June 14, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 205 

Cooper, Levi. Enrolled Oct. 12, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20. 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Cox, Edward A. Enrolled Oct. 13, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1SC3; died 
at English Turn, La., March 8, 1864. 

Cirtis, Milo. Enrolled Sept. 20, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Aug. n, 1S64. 

Uemond, William H. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Derby, William. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Dowdy, Joseph. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63 : mu>- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Dufour, Joseph. Enrolled Sept. 5, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Dunham, George. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
hospital attendant Jan., 1S64, and so borne until July, 1864; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., June 14, 1S65. 

Elkey, Henry. Enrolled Oct. 10, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., March 15, t865> 

Ellis, Charles H. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
died at Plaquemine, La., Aug. 3, 1S64. 

Fields, Henry. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Feb. 9, 1S64: orig- 
inally served in Co. M; assigned to Co. F, May 14, 1S64; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Fowler, Charles. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Fowler, William H. Enrolled Oct. 3, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as William H. T. Fowler. 

Frederick, John. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 25, 1S65; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Freeman, Frederick. Enrolled Oct. 5, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Freeman, George F. N. Enrolled Aug. 22, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 
1863; deserted at Donaldsonville, La., Aug. 30, 1865. 

Fry, John. Enrolled and mustered Feb. iS, 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Goodell, George. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 22, 1S65; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Green, William P. Enrolled Oct. 8, 1863; mustered Oct. 20. iS/V}; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hagamin, Samuel. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 
dishonorably dismissed at Plaquemine, La., March 15, 1865, and sen- 
tenced by general court-martial to two years hard labor and confine- 
ment at Fort Jefferson, Fla. 

Hagermore, George. Enrolled Sept. 30, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 
died at Plaquemine, La., July 7, 1S64. 



206 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Hall, Joseph B. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct 2, 1865. 

Hamilton; Andrew. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Harris, Charles W. Enrolled Oct. 10, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
died at Plaquemine, La., Aug. 11, 1S64. 

Harris, Edward. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 25, 1864; assigned to Co. 
F, from Co. M, May 14, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Harvey, Thornton. Enrolled Oct. 6, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hecock, Joseph. Enrolled Oct. 10, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Heerek. 

Helmes, Harkless. Enrolled Oct. 4, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Donaldsonville, La., July 10, 1865. 

Hill, John G. Enrolled Oct. 19, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as John C. Hill. 

Hoke, Joshua. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Holmes, Charles. Enrolled Oct. 5, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hopper, Benjamin H. Enrolled Oct. 9, 1863 ; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63 ; 
died at Plaquemine, La., April 5, 1864. 

Howard, Henry. Enrolled Oct. 15, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Irving, David. Enrolled Oct 7, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; discharged 
on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Jan. 13, 1865. 

Jackson, Abraham B. Enrolled Oct. 15, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Sept. 29, 1864. 

Jackson, Erastus. Enrolled Sept. 4, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; died 
at Plaquemine, La., Oct. 13, 1S64. 

Jackson, Gilbert. Enrolled and mustered March 4, 1865; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jackson, John L. Enrolled Oct. 3, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; dis- 
charge furnished April 17, 1866. 

Jackson, Julius W. Enrolled and mustered Feb 3, 1S65; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jackson, Norton. Enrolled and mustered March 9, 1865 ; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jackson, Sylvester. Enrolled Oct. 13, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
died at Plaquemine, La., April 24, 1865. 

Jefferson, James N. Enrolled Oct. 5, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
borne on recruiting service from Dec. 17, 1863, until Jan. 7, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, Henry. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 207 

Jones, John. Enrolled Oct. 14, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Lanson, Isaiah. Enrolled Sept. 5, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Lansing, William H. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Lawrence, James A. Enrolled Oct. 10, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Lee, Charles H. Enrolled Oct. 15, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63 ; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Lee, James. Enrolled and mustered March 3, 1865; mustered out Oct. 
2, 1865. 

Leonard, Simon A. Enrolled Oct. 6, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Lewis, James. Enrolled Oct. 10, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; sent to 
Rhode Island (sick) on transport Sept. 19, 1865; mustered out Oct. 
24, 1865, 

Martin, John. Enrolled Oct. 15, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Dec. 27, 1864. 

McCartv, Henry. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 23, 1865; died at Pla- 
quemine, La., May 20, 1S65. 

Miller, Benjamin. Enrolled Sept. 11, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Miller, Lewis H. Enrolled Oct. 13, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Miller, William H. Enrolled Oct. 9, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Mix, Collins. Enrolled Aug. 29, 1S63 ; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; borne 
as absent sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., from March 26, 
1S64, until May 30, 1S64, when he died. 

Nichols, Richard. Enrolled Oct. 8, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; hos- 
pital nurse Dec, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Norton, Samuel. Enrolled Sept. 21, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Oliver, Henry F. Enrolled Sept. 29, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Ozier, John. Enrolled Oct. 18, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Perry, Milton M. Enrolled and mustered March 7, 1865; sent to Rhode 
Island (sick) Sept. 19, 1865, on hospital transport; mustered out at 
New York City Nov. 3, 1S65. 

PlNN, Delaware. Enrolled Oct. 15, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Prime, Henry. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



208 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Pugh, John A. Enrolled Oct. 7, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Rhodes, William H. Enrolled and mustered July 23, 1S64; discharged 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Ritter, Oscar. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 16, 1S65; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Robbins, William. Enrolled Oct. 13, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 
died at Plaquemine, La., Nov. 4, 1S64. 

Rodgers, Joseph. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Rogers. 

Scott, Norris. Enrolled Oct. 19, 1863 ; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63 > died at 
Plaquemine, La., Sept. 12, 1S64. 

Sheppard, Jeremiah J. Enrolled and mustered March 1, 1865 ; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Smith, George. Enrolled Aug. 15, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; hos- 
pital nurse Dec, 1S63, and so borne until May, 1S64; discharged on 
surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Sept. 23, 1S64. 

Smith, William H. Enrolled Oct. io, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Stafford, Thomas. Enrolled Oct. 6, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
hospital nurse Dec, 1S63 ; discharged on surgeon's certificate at Plaque- 
mine, La., June 14, 1S65. 

Stephens, Aaron. Enrolled and mustered March 6, 1865 ; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Steward, William H. Enrolled Oct. 13, 1863 ; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
hospital attendant Aug., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Sutphens, Charles. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Sutphens, Thomas. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
died at English Turn, La., March 21, 1864. 

Synix, Charles A. R. Enrolled Oct. 3, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
hospital attendant Feb., 1S64, and so borne until Oct., 1864; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., June 14, 1865. 

Taylor, James H. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Taylor, John. Enrolled Oct. 15, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; on 
recruiting service Dec, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Taylor, Lewis. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Taylor, William H. Enrolled Oct. 13, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Teabout, William. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Thomas, James C. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 










LIEUT. WILLIAM II. CHENERY 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 209 

Thompson, Benjamin F. Enrolled Oct. 25, 1864 ; mustered Oct. 28, 

1863; discharged at Portland, Me., June 24, 1S65, by order dated 

April 28, 1S65. 
Thompson, Henry. Enrolled Oct. 9, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, iSf>3; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Tyson, John. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mustered 

Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Underhill, George. Enrolled and mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; mustered 

out Oct. 2, 1S65, 
Van Alstyne, George. Enrolled Sept. 2S, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 

1S63; discharged on surgeon's certificate at Donaldsonville, La., July 

10, 1S65. 
Wallace, John H. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Wallace, Philip. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Warfield, Benjamin. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 

hospital nurse Dec, 1863; discharged on surgeon's certificate at Pla- 

quemine, La., June 7, 1865. 
Washington, Jacob. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Washington, John. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Washington, William. Enrolled Oct. 4, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Way, Ira B. Enrolled Aug. 2, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; discharged 

on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., June 1, 1S64. 
White, William H. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Williams, Abram. Enrolled Oct. 10, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Williams, Jacob. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; borne 

as wagoner Dec, 1863; deserted at Donaldsonville, La., July 20, 1865. 
Williams, James. Enrolled Oct. 15, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Williams, Levi. Enrolled Oct. 10, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Williams, Thomas E. D. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 

1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Williamson, Thomas. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 

died in General Hospital at New Orleans, La., April 2, 1864. 
Williamson, William E. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; 

discharged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Sept. 24, 1S64. 

>4 



210 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Wilmore, Isaac. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Windham, George. Enrolled Oct. 3, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; de- 
serted at Dutch Island, Oct. 24, 1863. 

Woodward, William H. Enrolled Oct. 15, 1863 ; mustered Oct. 20, 
1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Yates, James. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Yates, Moses. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Young, Nelson. Enrolled Oct. 15, 1863; mustered Oct. 20, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



COMPANY G. 
Captain. 

Nelson Kenyon. Commissioned captain Co. D, Fourth Rhode Island 
Infantry, Sept. 11, iS6i ; mustered in Oct. 30, 1861 ; resigned Aug. 11, 
1862; commissioned captain Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery 
Dec. 7, 1S63; re-mustered to date Oct. 10, 1S63; assigned to Co. E, 
Dec. 26, 1863, but never served in the company; permanently assigned 
to Co. G; borne as in command of Second Battalion from Jan. 21, 
1864, until March 7, 1864; again in command of Second Battalion 
from March 27, 1864, until July, 1864; detached by order as provost 
marshal of Iberville Parish, La., Nov. 7, 1864; relieved from duty Dec. 
8, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

First Lieutenants. 

Sigourney B. Goffe. Enrolled and mustered as corporal Co. L, Ninth 
Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1862; mustered out Sept. 2, 1862 
enrolled as corporal Co. D, Twelfth Rhode Island Infantry, Sept. 6 
1862; mustered Oct. 13, 1862; slightly wounded in chest at battle of 
Fredericksburg Dec. 13, 1S62; promoted sergeant March 1, 1863 
mustered out July 29, 1863 ; commissioned first lieutenant Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Dec. 1, 1863 ;• re-mustered to date Nov. 4, 
1863; originally served in Co. H ; transferred to Co. G by order dated 
Dec. 26, 1S63; detached as acting assistant adjutant general on staff 
of Gen Thomas W. Sherman, by order dated Sept. 18, 1864, and so 
borne until Jan., 1861;; mustered out Oct. 2, 1861;. 

Charles H. Aldrich. Enrolled and mustered as a sergeant in Co. C, 
Third Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Aug. 22, 1861 ; promoted first 
sergeant Nov. 20, 1S62 ; promoted second lieutenant to date from Nov. 
28, 1S62; assigned to duty in Co. B, Feb. 21, 1863; resigned May 2, 
1863; commissioned first lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy 
Artillery Dec. iS, 1863; mustered in to date Nov. 4, 1S63; assigned to 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 211 

Co. G; ordered on detached service as acting battalion adjutant 
March 27, 1S64, and so borne until July, 1S64; borne on special dutv 
as battalion and post quartermaster from Nov. 19, 1S64, until Jan., 
1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Second Lieutenants. 

JAMBS Dodds. Enrolled as private Co. L, Third Rhode Island Heaw 
Artillery, Jan. II, 1S62; mustered Feb. 14, 1S62; discharged to accept 
commission as second lieutenant in Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy 
Artillery Dec. 15, 1863, commission dated Dec. 3, 1863; mustered Dec. 
29, 1863; assigned to Co. G; detached by order as acting aid-de-camp 
at Post Plaquemine, La., Nov. 29, 1864, and so borne until Jan., 1865. 

George L. Gaskell. Enrolled as private in Battery G, First Rhode 
Island Light Artillery, Dec. 3, 1861 ; mustered Dec. 21, 1S61 ; dis- 
charged Jan. 2, 1864, to accept commission as second lieutenant in 
Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery; commission dated Dec. 20, 
1863; mustered in Jan. 3, 1864; assigned to Co. G ; borne on detached 
service as acting deputy provost marshal at Plaquemine, La., from 
May 24, 1S64, until Sept., 1864; borne on special duty as enrolling 
officer from Nov. 7, 1864, until Nov. 29, 1S64; ordered on detached 
service as officer of provost guard at Plaquemine, La., Dec. 22, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

First Sergeant. 

Charles II. Williams. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Quartermaster Sergeants. 

Alexander T. Williams. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 
1S63; promoted quartermaster sergeant Nov. 10, 1863; discharged on 
surgeon's certificate at Donaldsonville, La., July 10, 1S65. 

David R. Wadkins. Enrolled as private Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 
4, 1S63; acting commissary sergeant Oct., 1S64, and so borne until 
Jan., 1865; promoted corporal July 21, 1865; promoted quartermaster 
sergeant Aug. 23, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Sergeants. 

Hamilton F. Davis. Enrolled as private Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 
4, 1S63; promoted sergeant Nov. 10, 1S63; died at Plaquemine, La., 
June 23, 1864. 

Washington Reed. Enrolled as private Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 
1S63; promoted sergeant Nov. 10, 1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

David Johnson. Enrolled as private Oct. 2^, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 
1863; promoted corporal Nov. 10, 1S63; acting sergeant-major of bat- 
talion Jan., 1S64; promoted sergeant March 2, 1864; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as David L. Johnson. 



212 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Samuel C. Weeks. Enrolled as private Oct. 24, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 

1S63; promoted corporal Nov. 10, 1863; promoted sergeant March 30, 

1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Henry Dixon. Enrolled as private Oct. 27, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 

1S63; promoted corporal March 30, 1864; promoted sergeant July 19, 

1864; sent on hospital transport to Rhode Island Sept. 19, 1865; 

mustered out Oct. 17, 1865. 
Edward Dolphin. Enrolled as private Oct. 21, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 

1863; promoted corporal Nov. 10, 1S63; promoted sergeant July 21, 

1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Frederick L. Dunbar. Enrolled as private Oct. 30, 1863; mustered 

Nov. 4, 1863; promoted corporal Aug. 15, 1864; promoted sergeant 

July 21, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Corporals. 

Theron H. Robbins. Enrolled as private Oct. 30, 1863; mustered Nov. 

4, 1863 ; promoted corporal Nov. 10, 1S63; discharged on surgeon's 

certificate at Plaquemine, La., June 14, 1S65. 
Joseph H. Johnson, 2d. Enrolled as private Oct. 17, 1863 ; mustered Nov. 

4, 1863; promoted corporal Nov. 10, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Thomas H. Sutphens. Enlisted as private Oct. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 

4, 1863; promoted corporal March 2, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Isaac Weeks. Enrolled as private Oct. 13, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 

promoted corporal March 30, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
William L. G. Freeman. Enrolled as private Oct. 4, 1863; mustered 

Nov. 4, 1863; corporal Aug. 15, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Lewis H. Freeman. Enrolled as private Oct. 30, 1863 ; mustered Nov. 4, 

1863; promoted corporal Aug. 15, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
George N. Adkins. Enrolled as private Oct. 29, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 

1863; promoted corporal June 23, 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Benjamin Ringgold. Enrolled as private Oct. 20, 1863; mustered Nov. 

4, 1863; promoted corporal June 23, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
John Woolfred. Enrolled as private Oct. 24, 1863 ; mustered Nov. 4, 

1S63; promoted corporal July 21, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
William A. White. Enlisted as private Oct. 8, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 

1863; promoted corporal Aug. 23, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Musicians. 

Titus B. Batus. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

John H. Hector. Enrolled Oct. 31, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; orig- 
inally served as private; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Van Loon, Isaac P. Enrolled as private Oct. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 
1863; musician Oct., 1864, and so borne until Jan., 1865; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 213 

Artificers. 

John W. Myers. Enrolled as private Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 
1S63; promoted artificer Feb. 28, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Washington Wadkins. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 4. 
promoted artificer Feb. 2S, 1864 mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Privates. 

Alexander, Charles. Enrolled as private Oct. 17, 1863; mustered 
Nov. 4, 1S63; sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., Aug., 
1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Allen, David. Enrolled Oct. 19, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; sick in 
General Hospital, New Orleans, La., Aug., 1864; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Anderson, Charles H. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Armstrong, David. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., Aug., 1864; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Baldwin, William. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63 : 
borne as absent on recruiting service from Nov. 20, 1863, until May 7, 
1S64, when he deserted. 

Barber, Thomas. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Bartlett, Alonzo. Enrolled and mustered March 22, 1865; discharged 
on surgeon's certificate at Donaldsonville, La., July 10, 1865. 

Benton, John. Enrolled Oct. 2S, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; borne 
in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., from March 15, 1S64, until 
Julv, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bird, Robert. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; deserted 
from Dutch Island, R. I., Dec. 23, 1S63. 

Boardley, Albert. Enrolled Oct. 31, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Breed, George F. Enrolled Oct. 31, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Brinkniff, Samuel. Enrolled Oct. 20, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La, Aug., 1864; mustered 
out Oct. 2. 1865. Also borne as Brinkruff. 

Brown, James. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bryant, George. Enrolled Oct. 27, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
borne as at post headquarters from March 30, 1S64, until June, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Butler, James. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Canada, Joseph. Enrolled Nov. 3, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



214 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Cannon, Thead. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; de- 
serted from Donaldsonville, La., July 6, 1S65. 

Carey, Miles. Enrolled Oct. 21, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Carter, Robert R. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1S63 ; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Champlin, George H. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1863; mustered Nov 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Charles, Alexander. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Coleman, Walter. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Colwell, Charles. Enrolled Oct. 28, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Congdon, James. Enrolled Aug. 2S, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; de- 
serted from Providence, R. I., Nov. 23, 1S63. 

Conklin, Joseph H . Enrolled Oct. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Coons, William. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Craig, Charles. Enrolled and mustered April 2, 1864; discharged on 
surgeon's certificate at Donaldsonville, La., July 10, 1865. 

Cross, Benjamin W. Enrolled Sept. 22, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; 
deserted from Providence, R. I., Nov. 23, 1863. 

Davis, Hannibal F. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863 ; died 
at Plaquemine, La., Sept. 5, 1864. 

Davis, William T. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
absent on recruiting service Dec, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Dean, William. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Dingman, Lewis B. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Dolphin, James. Enrolled Oct. 21, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; died 
at Plaquemine, La., Aug. 4, 1864. 

Etharage, March. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Freeman, George E. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Gardner, Dwight. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 7, 1865; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Grannis, Albert H. Enrolled Oct. 29, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Graves, John G. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; de- 
serted from Providence, R. I., Nov. 12, 1863; returned from desertion 
Nov. 17, 1863; deserted from Camp Bailey, R. I., Dec. 2, 1S63; subse- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 21 5 

quently returned from desertion May 17, 1864; on detached service as 
musician Oct., 1S64, and so borne until Jan., 1S65; deserted from Don- 
aldsonville, La., July 9, 1865. 

Gray, George. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; sent to 
Rhode Island on hospital transport Sept. 19, 1865; mustered out at 
New York City Oct. 18, 1S65. 

Greene, Andrew J. Enrolled Oct. 21, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
borne as hospital nurse July, 1S64; discharged on surgeon's certificate 
at Plaquemine, La., Aug. 26, 1864. 

Greene, James. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Groff, Joseph. Enrolled Oct. 27, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Guilburg, Edward F. Enrolled Oct. 31, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Guy, Edward. Enrolled Oct. 31, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hamilton, George W. Enrolled Oct. 28, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hannibal, Ebenezer B. Enrolled Oct. 22, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Harling, George L. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., June 14, 1865. 

Harrison, Epaphroditus. Enrolled Oct. 21, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 
1863 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Harway, Prince A. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
borne as absent sick in General Hospital at New Orleans, La., from 
March 15, 1S64, until July 8, 1S64, when he died. 

Hasbrook, Samuel H. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Haskill, Charles C. Enrolled and mustered Dec. 10, 1S63; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hawley, George. Enrolled and mustered March 4, 1865 ; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hazel, Henry W. Enrolled Oct. 22, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Higgins, Henry. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hill, Henry. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hugh, Philip P. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Isaac, John. Enrolled Oct. 31, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; died at 
New Orleans, La., April 1, 1864. 

Jackins, Lorin E. Enrolled Oct. 27, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



2l6 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Jackson, Adelbert. Enrolled Oct. 29, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
died at Plaquemine, La., June 27, 1864. 

Jackson, Andrew. Enrolled Oct. 22, 1S63 ; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jackson, Samuel. Enrolled Oct. 20, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63 ; died 
at Plaquemine, La., May 27, 1864. 

Jefferson, Samuel O. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1S63 ; mustered Nov. 4, 1863 ; 
taken prisoner and shot by the enemy while on picket duty at Plaque- 
mine, La., Aug. 6, 1S64. 

Jennings, Charles. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., Aug., 1S64; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, Israel W. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, John. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; born e 
as absent on recruiting service from Nov. 20, 1S63, until May 18, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, Joseph H. Enrolled Oct. 2S, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, Robert. Enrolled Oct. 22, 1863 ; mustered Nov. 4, 1863 ; 
hospital attendant Jan., 1864, and so borne until March, 1864; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Donaldsonville, La., July 10, 1S65. 

Johnson, William. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jones, Eli M. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jones, Jackson. Enrolled Oct. 13, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jones, William. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; died 
in hospital at Camp Parapet, La., Sept. 28, 1865. 

King, Anthony. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; taken 
prisoner and shot by the enemy while on picket duty at Plaquemine, 
La., Aug. 6, 1864. 

Lampkins, James. Enrolled Oct. 31, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Lampkins, John. Enrolled Oct. 31, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Lee, Abraham. Enrolled Oct. 31, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Lenison, Philip. Enrolled Oct. 29, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; died 
at English Turn, La., Feb. 9, 1S64. 

Lincoln, William. Enrolled Oct. 24, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Mason, Samuel. Enrolled Oct. 29, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63 ; cap- 
tured and shot by the enemy, while on picket duty at Plaquemine, 
La., Aug. 6, 1S64. 




LIEUT. GEORGE W. II. ALLEN 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 217 

McCoy, John. Enrolled Oct. 28, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Mc Daniels, Richard. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Miller, Floyd N. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Miller, Sharp. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Moore, Samuel. Enrolled and mustered March 23, 1S65; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Morgan, Jerome G. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, iS6^. 

Morrow, Dennis. Enrolled and mustered April 2, 1864 ; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Palmer, Levi. Enrolled Oct. 20, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Penton, Charles. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Pertilla, William H. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Peters, James. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; mus- 

t tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Peters, James H. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Peterson, Walter. Enrolled Oct. 24, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
died at Plaquemine, La., April 18, 1865. 

Prime, Aaron. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1863 ; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63 ; sick in Gen- 
eral Hospital, New Orleans, La., Aug., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Rich, James. Enrolled Oct. 20, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Robinson, George W. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Robinson, William R. Enrolled Oct. 20, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863: 
borne as sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, La., 
from March 15, 1S64, until Dec, 1864; discharged on surgeon's cer- 
tificate at Plaquemine, La., June 7, 1865. 

Saddler, Nelson. Enrolled Oct. 28, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Sanford, William H. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Sharper, John N. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate from Corps d'Afrique Hospital, New 
Orleans, La., Sept. II, 1S65. 

Shorter, Thomas. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



2l8 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Smith, Benjamin F. Enrolled Oct. 29, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 

borne as absent sick in Regimental Hospital, Dutch Island, R. I., 

from Jan. 21, 1S64, until Jan. 31, 1S64, when he died. 
Smith, John. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; hospital 

attendant Aug., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Smith, John M. Enrolled Oct. 29, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; died at 

Plaquerr.ine. La., Sept. 15, 1864. 
Smith, John W. Enrolled Oct. 31, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mustered 

out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Smith, Samuel. Enrolled Oct. 16, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63 ; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Smothers, Francis. Enrolled Oct. 28, 1863 ; mustered Nov. 4, 1863 

died at Plaquemine, La., Nov. 9, 1864. Also borne as Smother. 
Stevenson, Isaiah. Enrolled Oct. 24, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Steward, James F. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
St. John, Samuel. Enrolled Oct. 29, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
St. John, William H. Enrolled Oct. 29, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863 

hospital nurse May, 1864, and so borne until Jan., 1865; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Sullivan, John. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; died at 

Plaquemine, La., May 20, 1864. 
Thompson, George F. Enrolled Oct. 20, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 

hospital attendant Feb., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Titus, George. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mustered 

out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Van Camp, Waterman. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Vromen, Orin. Enrolled Oct. 29, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mustered 

out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Wallace, Charles. Enrolled Oct. 22, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Wallace, John G. Enrolled Oct. 22, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Washington, Henry. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1S63 ; mustered Nov. 4, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Watson, Thomas. Enrolled Oct. 17, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Webb, John C. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; mustered 

out Oct. 2, 1865. 
West, Job. Enrolled Oct. 21, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; died at 

Plaquemine, La., April 28, 1864. 
White, Alfred. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Donaldsonville, La., July 10, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 219 

Williams, Amos. Enrolled and mustered March 13, 1865; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Wright, Franklin. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Wright, Samuel. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1S63; mustered Nov. 4, 1S63; de- 
serted from Providence, R. I., Nov. 6, 1S63. 



COMPANY H. 
Captain. 

Joshua M. Addeman. Enrolled and mustered as private Co. B, Tenth 
Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1S62 ; mustered out Sept. I, 1862; 
appointed second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. 
Oct., 1863; acting adjutant at Camp Smith; commissioned captain 
Dec. 19, 1S63; mustered to date Nov. 23, 1863, by order dated Jan. 12, 
1864; originally served in Co. L; transferred to Co. H, Jan. 13, 1864; 
judge advocate general court-martial May 25, Oct. 3, Oct. 31, Dec. 28, 

1864, and March 3, 1865 ; judge advocate and recorder military commis- 
sions Sept. 28, Nov. 1, 1S64, and May 4, 1S65; president of a military 
commission Thibodeaux, La., March 24, 1865; acting assistant judge 
advocate on staff of Brig. -Gen. R. A. Cameron, commanding District 
of La Fourche, from June 4 to July 15, 1865 ; relieved by Special Order 
No. 214, Headquarters Southern District of Louisiana, July 15, 

1865, abolishing District of La Fourche; provost marshal Parish of 
Ascension, Donaldsonville, La., Aug. 1, 1865, until Aug. 21, 1865; on 
military commission at New Orleans, La., from Aug. 21, 1865, until 
Sept. 29, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

First Lieutenants. 

Robert S. Gaskill. Enrolled and mustered as corporal Co. D, Fifth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Nov. 23, 1S61 ; mustered Dec. 16, 
iS6i ; promoted sergeant 1862 ; detached on recruiting service in Rhode 
Island July, 1863, and so borne until Dec, 1863; discharged at Wash- 
ington, D. C, to accept commission as first lieutenant in Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Dec. 19, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
assigned to Co. II ; ordered on detached service as officer of the provost 
guard at Plaquemine, La., from May 24, 1864. until Aug., 1864; 
ordered on detached service as provost marshal Parish of Iberville, La., 
Sept. 14, 1864, until Nov., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Charles S. Brooks. Enrolled as private Co. B, Fourth Vermont 
Infantry, Aug. 17, 1861 ; promoted hospital steward of his regiment 
Jan., 1862; appointed hospital steward of the Second Division, Sixth 
Corps, Nov. 3, 1S62, and attached to Gen. A. P. Howe's headquarters; 
discharged to accept commission as first lieutenant in Fourteenth 



220 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Dec. 24, 1863; mustered Jan. 15, 1864; 
assigned to Co. H ; detailed as battalion quartermaster March 27, 1864, 
until July, 1864; ordered on detached service as pass officer at post 
headquarters Sept. 23, 1S64, and so borne until Oct. 31, 1864; on duty 
as acting assistant adjutant-general in provost marshal general's depart- 
ment Oct. 31, 1864, also as provost marshal Parish of St. Bernard 
until mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Second Lieutenants. 

S. Wildes Coggeshall. Enrolled and mustered as corporal Co. F, 
Ninth Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1862; mustered out Sept. 1, 
1S62 ; enrolled as sergeant Co. A, Twelfth Rhode Island Infantry, Oct. 
7, 1862; mustered Oct. 13, 1862; mustered out July 29, 1863; commis- 
sioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, 
Dec. 19, 1863; re-mustered to date Nov. 28, 1863; assigned to Co. H; 
detached as acting aid-de-camp on staff of Brig. -Gen. T. W. Sherman, 
by order dated Dec. 5, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

James P. Brown. Enrolled and mustered as private Co. K, Tenth Rhode 
Island Infantry, May 26, 1862; mustered out Sept. 1, 1S62 ; commis- 
sioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, 
Dec. 31, 1863; assigned to Co. H; detached as officer of the provost 
guard March 27, 1864, and so borne until May, 1864; ordered to com- 
mand detachment opposite Plaquemine, La., Dec. 28, 1864; died at 
Donaldsonville, La., Aug. 13, 1S65. 

First Sergeant. 

William Mills. Enrolled Nov. it, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
originally served as private; promoted first sergeant from sergeant 
Dec. 19, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Quartermaster Sergeant. 

John Moore. Enrolled as private Nov. 4, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
promoted corporal March 16, 1865; promoted quartermaster sergeant 
June 1, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Sergeants. 

Thomas A. Wilkinson. Enrolled Nov. 5, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 

1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Samuel Mason. Enrolled as private Nov. 11, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 

1863; promoted sergeant from private Nov. 23, 1S63; died at Plaque- 
mine, La., Sept. 15, 1864. 
Charles H. Roberts. Enrolled as private Nov. 4, 1S63; mustered Nov. 

23, 1863; promoted corporal Jan. 16, 1S64; promoted sergeant May 12, 

1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Edward T. Holmes. Enrolled as private Nov. 13, 1863; mustered Nov. 

23, 1863; promoted corporal June 1, 1S64; promoted sergeant Oct. 24, 

1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 22 1 

Joseph Smith. Enrolled as private Nov. u, 1863; mustered Nov. ;-$, 

1863; promoted corporal Nov. 23, 1S63; promoted sergeant Dec. 19, 

1864; killed at Donaldsonville, La., by men of the First Louisiana 

Infantry June 29, 1S65. 
William Gale. Enrolled as private Nov. 11, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 

1S63; promoted corporal May 30, 1S64; promoted sergeant Dec. 19, 

1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Charles J. Alston. Enrolled as private Nov. 11, 1S63; mustered Nov. 

23, 1S63; promoted corporal Dec. 19, 1S64; promoted sergeant July t, 

1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Joseph P. Mellix. Enrolled as private Nov. 13, 1S63; mustered Nov. 

23, 1S63; promoted corporal Dec. 19, 1S64; promoted sergeant Aug. 

2^, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Corporals. 

Henry McIntyre. Enrolled Nov. 11, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate July 10, 1S65. 

John McKee. Enrolled Nov. 11, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate June 14, 1865. 

Joseph Walker. Enrolled Nov. 4, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jacob Watson. Enrolled as private Nov. 5, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 
1863; promoted corporal Nov. 23, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Joshua M. Brown. Enrolled as private Nov. 13, 1863; mustered Nov. 
23, 1863; promoted corporal May 13, 1864; died at Plaquemine, La., 
March 3, 1865. 

Thomas W. Carson. Enrolled as private Oct. 26, 1S63 ; mustered Nov. 
23, 1863; promoted corporal May 18, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Lyman Davis. Enrolled as private Nov. 7, 1863 ; mustered Nov. 23, 1863 ; 
promoted corporal May 25, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Daniel A. Gardiner. Enrolled as private Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 
23, 1863; in quartermaster's department March, 1864, and so borne 
until Aug., 1S64; corporal May 30, 1S64; mustered out Oct 2, 1865. 

Robert Cooper. Enrolled as private Nov. 6, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 
1863; promoted corporal June 1, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

John Western. Enrolled as private Oct. 31, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 
1863; promoted corporal Aug. 31, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Elijah Walker. Enrolled and mustered as private Feb. 25, 1S64; pro- 
moted corporal Dec. 19, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Richard T. Henry. Enrolled as private Nov. 11, 1863; mustered Nov. 
23, 1863; promoted corporal Dec. 19, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Also borne as Richard F. Henry. 

Stephen King. Enrolled as private Oct. 6, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 
1863; promoted corporal Dec. 19, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

William George. Enrolled as private Nov. 12, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 
1863; promoted corporal Dec. 19, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



222 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

John Carter. Enrolled as private Nov. 4, 1S63; mustered Nov. 33, 
1S63; promoted corporal July 1, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

John Thomas. Enrolled as private Nov. 12, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 
1863; in quartermaster's department April, 1864, and so borne until 
July, 1864; corporal Aug. 23, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Artificers. 

James Kilby. Enrolled Oct. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; originally 
served as private; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Kibby. 

Henry M. Williams. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
originally served as private; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Musicians. 

John D. Rodgers. Enrolled Nov. 3, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Eli Dickerson. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1863 ; mustered Nov. 23, 1863 ; de- 
serted from Camp Smith, Providence, R. I., Dec. 1, 1S63. 

Privates. 

Addison, Worthy. Enrolled Aug. 8, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
deserted from Camp Smith, Providence, R. I., while on detached ser- 
vice, Nov. 28, 1S63. 

Allen, Andrew. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 23, 1865 ; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Anderson, David. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1863 ; mustered Nov. 23, 1863 ; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bailey, Andrew. Enrolled Oct. 20, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bailey, Charles N. Enrolled Oct. 21, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 186?. 

Barber, Peter. Enrolled Nov. 5, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bardt, John. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Barton, John. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bell, Richard. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Bell, William. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bonus, Lewis. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bourne, Charles. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Brayton, James J. Enrolled Nov. 13, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Plaquemine, La., Aug. 7, 1864. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 223 

Brown, John W. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; died 
at English Turn, La., Feb. 21, 1S64. 

Burton, Samuel. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Cables, Ebenezer. Enrolled Nov. 11, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Caffer, James. Enrolled Oct. 28, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Carr, Joseph. Enrolled Nov. 4, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Carter, Henry. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; absent 
in confinement by sentence of general court-martial, order dated Nov. 
29, 1S64, and so borne until Feb. 22, 1866, when released; discharge 
furnished without pay or allowance March 15, 1866. 

Clare, Austin. Enrolled Oct. 14, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; died 
at Plaquemine, La., May 6, 1865. 

Colbert, James. Enrolled Nov. 4, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; in 
quartermaster's department July, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Colston, Jack. Enrolled Nov. 4, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Cooper, James II. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Crockett, Charles W. Enrolled Nov. 7, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Cummings, Francis. Enrolled Oct. 20, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
died at Plaquemine, La., April 21, 1864. 

Curtis, Samuel H. Enrolled Nov. 4, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Darkins, Other. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Davis, Charles H. Enrolled Oct. 27, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2^, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Davis, William H. Enrolled Nov. 7, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Dean, David. Enrolled Nov. 9, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Diggs, Henry C. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 25, 1864; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Dilling, Charles. Enrolled Nov. 3, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
teamster April, 1S64 ; in quartermaster's department Sept., 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Furber, Newton. Enrolled Nov. 4, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; died 
at Plaquemine, La., Sept. 1, 1864. 

Gall, Esop A. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



224 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Giles, Isaac. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Gladdy, Thomas. Enrolled Nov. 5, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Gray, Chester. Enrolled Oct. 28, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Green, George L. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
borne as hospital attendant from June, 1864 until Oct., 1864; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Green, General. Enrolled Nov. 4, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; hos- 
pital nurse March, 1864, and so borne until May, 1864 ; and again 
hospital nurse from July, 1864, to Sept., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Groce, William H. Enrolled Nov. 9, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hall, George W. Enrolled Oct. 20, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hall, Robert J. Enrolled July 13, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Halsey, George. Enrolled Nov. 7, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Harris, Charles R. Enrolled Nov. 13, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Harrison, John. Enrolled Nov. 12, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hawes, Alexander. Enrolled Nov. 12, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
died at New Orleans, La., Feb. 4, 1864. 

Hays, Abraham. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Henderson, Thomas. Enrolled Nov. 12, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Henson, Joseph H. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
died at Plaquemine, La., Sept. 10, 1864. 

Hicks, Peter. Enrolled and mustered Nov. 23, 1863; borne as absent 
sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., from March 13, 1864, 
until May 17, 1864, when he died. 

Hicks, Sandy. Enrolled Nov. 7, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hicks, Warren. Enrolled Oct. 3, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus* 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hickson, William. Enrolled Oct. 27, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hill, Henry. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 6, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 
1865. 

Hill, John. Enrolled Nov. 9, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; teamster 
April, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 




LIEUT. WARREN RALPH 



From a recent picture 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 22$ 

IIoi.liday, James T. Enrolled Nov. 7, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; dis- 
honorably discharged, order dated Nov. 29. 1864. 

IIowskk. JOSEPH. Enrolled Nov. 11, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23. 1 S^> 3 : mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Hi <, hi s, Jamks M. Enrolled Oct. 4, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

HUNTER, CHARLES E. Enrolled Nov. u, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; 
dishonorably discharged and sentenced to confinement by general 
court-martial, order dated Nov. 29, 1864; released from confinement 
by order dated Dec. 20, 1S65 ; no further record. 

HUNTER, GEORGE. Enrolled Oct. 11, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hunter, Joseph. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 2^, 18655 mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

UiRi), Peter. Enrolled Oct. 14, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2^, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

JACKSON, Hillard. Enrolled Oct. [10, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jones, Austin. Enrolled Oct. 5, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865.. 

Jones, John. Enrolled Oct. 5, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; borne as 
absent sick in hospital at Dutch Island from Jan. 18, 1864, until 
March 26, 1S64, when he returned to regiment and was temporarily 
assigned to Co. I, for transfer to company; transferred to Co. II, 
July 11, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2. 1S65. 

Keller, John. Enrolled Oct. 7, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63: died at 
Plaquemine, La., June 30, 1S64. 

Lambert, Andrew. Enrolled Oct. 6, 1S63: mustered Nov. 2-^, 1863; died 
at Plaquemine, La., Aug. 5, 1864. 

Lee, William. Enrolled Oct. 5, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63 : deserted 
from Camp Bailey, Dutch Island, R. I., Nov. 2S, 1863. 

Linusey, James II. Enrolled Oct. 11, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2^, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Mann, STEPHEN. Enrolled Oct 23, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2^, 1863; died 
at Plaquemine, La., June 24, 1S64. 

Marshall, John. Enrolled Nov. 4, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2^, 1S63; de- 
serted at New Orleans, La., Feb. 5, 1S04. 

Mason. Thomas. Enrolled Oct. 25, 1863: mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
ered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

KfcDoNNELL, Samuel. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23. 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate June 14, 1865. 

McFee, Andrew. Knrolled Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Mi Intyre, James. Enrolled Nov. 7, 1S63; mustered Nov- 23, 1S63: 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
'5 



226 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

McLane, Henry. Enrolled Nov. n, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as McLinn. 

Miller, Benjamin. Enrolled Oct. 27, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Mixon, William. Enrolled Nov. 5, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Moore, Isaac. Enrolled Nov. 5, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Moseby, Carey O. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Mosley. 

Murphy, Alvin. Enrolled Nov. 5, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Murray, Andrew. Enrolled Nov. 4, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Nite, Joseph T. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1S63 ; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; died 
at Plaquemine, La., Nov. 25, 1864. 

Phantroy, Moses. Enrolled Nov. 5, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Price, John H. Enrolled Nov. 12, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Quick, James. Enrolled Oct. 20, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate Jan. 13, 1S65. 

Rayn, Shadrach. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate June 7, 1865. 

Reading, Stephen. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
died at Plaquemine, La., March 20, 1865. 

Reader, Robert. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
on recruiting service Dec, 1863; discharged on surgeon's certificate 
June 14, 1S65. 

Reeves, Joseph. Enrolled Nov. 3, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; de- 
serted at Donaldsonville, La., July 1, 1S65. 

Ridgeley, Richard. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate Jan. 13, 1S65. 

Roberts, William. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Roberts, Zachariah. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Robertson, George R. Enrolled Nov. 13, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 
1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Robinson, Alonzo B. Enrolled Nov. 9, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Robinson, Samuel F. Enrolled Nov. 12, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Rodgers, John. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 227 

RUSSELL, Robert. Enrolled Nov. 5, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, [865. 
Saunders, Frank. Enrolled Nov. 5, 1863; mustered Nov. J3. 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Saunders, John. Enrolled Nov. 5, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; 

borne as absent sick in General Honpital, New Orleans, La., from 

March 13, 1864, until March 29, 1864, when he died. 
Scott, Charles. Enrolled Oct. 23, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Slade, Carrington P. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 1, 1S65; mustered 

out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Smith, Green. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; team- 
ster May and July, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Smith, Richard. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 10, 1S65; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1S65. 
St. Clair, Edward. Enrolled Oct. 26, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 

mustered out to date from Oct. 2, 1865. 
Stephens, William II. H. Enrolled Nov. 9, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2^, 

1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Sykes, John T. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 13, 1865; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Thompson, Abraham. Enrolled Oct. 3, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Thompson, Amos R. Enrolled Oct. 20, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2^, 1S63; 

attendant in hospital at Providence, R. I., Dec, 18^3, and so borne 

until July 11, 1S64, when transferred to company: hospital nurse 

July, 1864, and borne as attendant in hospital until Jan., 1865; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Tillman, George H. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2. 1S65. 
Van Hoff, David. Enrolled Nov. 11, 1863; mustered Nov. 2^, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, iS^. 
Vonlew, Charles. Enrolled Oct. 2^, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2^, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Watson, William A. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 

deserted at Donaldsonville, La., July 23, 1865. 
Western, Charles. Enrolled Oct. 31, 1863; mustered Nov. 23. 1S63: 

in quartermaster's department April, 1864, and so borne until Oct., 

1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Whiting, David. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
WILLIAMS, Samuel. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 25. 1S65; muttered 

out Oct. 2. 1865. 
Wilson, Jesse W. Enrolled Nov. 5, 1S63 ; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



228 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Wilson, Lamden. Enrolled Nov. 5, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Wilson, William. Enrolled Nov. 5, 1S63; mustered Nov. 23, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Wright, Joseph. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 11, 1865; mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1865. 
Wycoff, Thomas A. Enrolled Oct. 3, 1863; mustered Nov. 23, 1863; 

died at Plaquemine, La., Nov. 12, 1S64. 



COMPANY I. 
Captain. 

Samuel Farnum. Enrolled as private Co. K, Seventh Rhode Island 
Infantry, Aug. S, 1S62 ; mustered Sept. 6, 1S62 ; promoted corporal 
Jan. 4, 1S63; promoted sergeant June 4, 1S63; commissioned captain 
Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Dec. 20, 1S63; mustered 
Dec. 2S, 1863; assigned to Co. I; borne as in command of Third 
Battalion, from April 23, 1S64, until May 27, 1S64; president field 
officers' court-martial Sept. 19, 1864; again in command of Third Bat- 
talion from Nov. 25, 1864, until Dec. 10, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 
1865. 

First Lieutenants. 

Alfred M. Taylor. Enrolled as private in Battery H, First Rhode 
Island Light Artillery, Oct. 6, 1S62; mustered Oct. 14, 1862; pro- 
moted sergeant; commissioned first lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery, Feb. 27, 1864; mustered March S, 1S64; 
assigned to Co. I; in arrest awaiting sentence Nov., 1864, and so 
borne until dismissed the service by sentence of general court-martial, 
order dated Dec. 30, 1864. 

Allen F. Cameron. Enrolled as sergeant Co. A, Fifth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery, Oct. 2S, 1861 ; mustered Dec. 16, 1S61 ; promoted 
first sergeant Oct. 2S, 1863; commissioned first lieutenant Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery June 17, 1864; mustered Aug. 11, 1864; 
assigned to Co. I; on general court-martial, New Orleans, La., Nov. 

5, 1864, to Jan., 1865 ; acting aid-de-camp at post headquarters, June 

6, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Charles L. Stafford. [For record see second lieutenant Co. B.] 

Second Lieutenants. 

Benjamin D. Jones. Enrolled as corporal Co. A, Fourth Rhode Island 
Infantry, Sept. 5, 1S61 ; mustered Oct. 30, 1S61 ; promoted sergeant; 
wounded at the battle of Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862; re-mustered as a 
veteran volunteer Jan. 5, 1864; commissioned second lieutenant Four- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 

teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Dec. 5, 1863; mustered | an . , 0j 
1864; assigned to Co. I : acting adjutant Third Battalion from Jan. 10, 
1865, to June 6, 1865; on the latter date assigned to duty as acting 
assistant adjutant general, District of Carrollton; announced ai 
adjutant Camp Parapet July 3, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Jonathan S. Belcher. Enrolled as sergeant Co. K, Seventh Rhode 
Island Infantry, Aug. 8, 1861; mustered Sept. f>, t86a; discharged by 
order dated Jan. 17, 1S64, to accept commission as second lieutenant 
Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery March 7, 1S04; mull 
same date; assigned to Co. I ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

First Sergeant. 

William Lyons. Enrolled as private Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 18, 
1S63: fust sergeant Nov. 29, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Quartermaster Sergeant. 

Francis II. Stewart. Enrolled as private Nov. 2S, 1S63; mustered Fe!>. 
15, 1864; promoted quartermaster sergeant April 1, 1864; sent north 
sick Sept. 19, 1865: mustered out at New York City, Oct. 2, 1865. 

Sergeants. 

Henry Heath. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, l86j; origi- 
nally served as private; discharged on surgeon's certificate June 8, i*^>.s- 

Peter Saunders. Enrolled as private Nov. 14, 1863; mustered Nov. 
28, 1863; originally served as private; promoted corporal ; promoted 
sergeant; discharged on surgeon's certificate June 15, 1865. 

William E. Burton. Enrolled Aug. 19, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2$. 

originally served as private: deserted from Dutch Island, R. I., Jan. 
8, 1864. " 

Robert B. Cromwell. Enrolled Nov. 13, 1S63: mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 
ordnance sergeant Jan., 1S64; deserted at Frenier, La.. June 16, 1864. 

Richard II. Truly. Enrolled as private Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 
28, 1S63; promoted corporal Nov. 29, 1863; promoted sergeant Feb. 
17, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Norris Cato. Enrolled as private Nov. 2^, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 
1863; promoted corporal Feb. 17, 1SG4; borne as in General Hospital, 
New Orleans, La., from July 4. 1S64, until Aug., 1864; promoted ser- 
geant April 11, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2. 1865. 

John F. Collins. Enrolled as private Nov. 21, 1863; mustered Nov. 
2S, 1S63; promoted corporal Oct. 11, 1S64: promoted sergeant April 
12, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Richard Clark. Enrolled as private Nov. 23, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S, 
1863; promoted corporal Feb. 17, 1864; promoted se: . il 12, 

'1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



230 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Corporals. 

Josiah Walker. Enrolled Oct. 15, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; origi- 
nally served as private; died in Regimental Hospital, Dutch Island, 

R. I., March 12, 1864. 
Hiram J. Thompson. Enrolled as private Nov. iS, 1863; mustered Nov. 

28, 1863; killed by lightning at Camp Parapet, La., July 12, 1864. 
Henry Mason. Enrolled Nov. 14, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; origi- 
nal! v served as private; died at Camp Parapet, La., Sept. 18, 1864. 
Edwin A. Whitfield. Enrolled Nov. 14, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S, 

1S63; originally served as private; deserted from Dutch Island, R. I., 

Jan. 16, 1S64. 
Hamlet S. D. Campbell. Enrolled as private Nov. 24, 1S63; mustered 

Nov. 28, 1863; promoted corporal ; deserted from Camp Parapet, La., 

Jan. 6, 1S65. 
William H. Webster. Enrolled Nov. 19, 1863; mustered Nov. 2S, 

1863; discharged on surgeon's certificate May 15, 1S65. 
Edward Nokey. Enrolled as private Nov. 13, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S, 

1863; promoted corporal Nov. 29, 1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
John Griffin. Enrolled as private Nov. 24, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 

1863; promoted corporal Dec. 12, 1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Anthony Hall. Enrolled as private Nov. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 

1863; promoted corporal Dec. 25, 1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Sylvester Baird. Enrolled Nov. 23, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; 

promoted corporal Feb. 17, 1864 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
William H. McDonald. Enrolled as private Nov. 2S, 1863 ; mustered 

Feb. 15, 1S64; promoted corporal Oct. 11, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 

1865. 
George II. Webster. Enrolled as private Nov. 21, 1863 ; mustered Nov. 

2S, 1S63; promoted corporal Oct. 11, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 

1865. * 
Archibald Jackson. Enrolled as private Nov. 24, 1S63; mustered Nov. 

28, 1S63; corporal April 12, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Joseph Johnson. Enrolled as private Nov. 26, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 

1S63; promoted corporal May 1, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Peter Miller. Enrolled as private Nov. 23, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 

1S63; promoted corporal June 1, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Jacob Clifford. Enrolled as private Nov. 20, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 

1863; promoted corporal June 1, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Musicians. 

John Brown. Enrolled Nov. 13, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; origi- 
nally servedjas private; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

James H. Jackson. Enrolled Nov. 17, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 
originally served as private; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 23 1 

Privates. 

Adams, Charles. Enrolled Nov. ia, 1 S63 ; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Allen, Samuel N. Enrolled Nov. 17, 1863; mustered Nov. 2S, 1S63; 

borne as hospital attendant from June 16, 1S64, until Oct., 1864; borne 

as absent sick from Sept. 19, 1865, until Oct. 26, 1865, when he MU 

discharged on surgeon's certificate from I)e Camp General Hospital, 

David's Island, New York Harbor. 
Allsbrook, Jackson. Enrolled Feb. S, 1S64; mustered Feb. 10, 1864; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Asbury, Isaac A. Enrolled Nov. 19, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 18635 di«- 

charged on surgeon's certificate June 8, 1S63. 
Bacchus, James. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, [8 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Bacon, William. Enrolled Nov. 18, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 181 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Banks, Andrew. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Barrett, Albert. Enrolled Nov. 25, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; 

died in Regimental Hospital at Camp Parapet, La.. Aug. (>, 1864. 
Berry, Thomas. Enrolled Nov. iS, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1803; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Berryman, Henry A. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Bettis, James II. Enrolled Nov. 12, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S, 1 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as James W. Bettis. 
Boardley, James. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63: mustered Nov. 281 1863; 

died at Camp Parapet, La., June S, 1S64. 
Bowen, Charles. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63: 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Bradley, Richard A. Enrolled Nov. iS, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 

1S63; hospital attendant Oct., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Brewster, Alfred. Enrolled Nov. 14, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; 

died at Camp Parapet, La., Nov. 14, 1S64. 
Brooks, William H. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1S63; mustered Feb. 9, 1S64; 

borne as sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., from July 20, 

1864, until Sept., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Brown, Thomas. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863: mustered Nov. 2S, 18635 

discharged on surgeon's certificate June S, 1865. 
Brcshell, Jonathan E. Enrolled Nov. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 

1863; mustered out Nov. 16, 1S65. 
Blrris, Thomas. Enrolled Nov. 11, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Bush, Almoran. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63: mustered Nov. 2S. 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Almerine. 



232 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Bush, James S. Enrolled Nov. 6, 1863; mustered Feb. 10, 1S64; borne 

as sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., from July 20, 1864, to 

Dec, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Caesar, Ralph. Enrolled Nov. 12, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; died 

at Camp Parapet, La., June 29, 1865. 
Carroll, Thomas P. Enrolled Nov. 25, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Champlin, Richard. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

discharged by order dated Feb. 21, 1866. 
Colden, Edmund. Enrolled Nov. 16. 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Copeland, William H. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 

1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Crawford, Handy. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Cummings, Hugh S. Enrolled Nov. 25, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

deserted from Camp Smith, R. I., Dec, 1863. 
Dailey, Ebenezer E. Enrolled Nov. 18, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

wagoner Jan., 1S64, and so borne during greater part of time unti 

Aug., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Davenport, Stephen. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 

1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Dennison, Jesse. Enrolled Nov. 18, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Denny, Woodhall. Enrolled Nov. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

died at Camp Parapet, La., Jan. 16, 1865. 
Derby, Charles H. Enrolled Nov. 14, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

absent sick in hospital at Camp Parapet, La., June, 1864; mustered 

out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Derrick, William P. Enrolled Nov. 14, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

died at Camp Parapet, La., Sept. 15, 1S64. 
Downing, Henry. Enrolled Nov. 24, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

discharged on surgeon's certificate June S, 1865. 
Dubois, Jacob. Enrolled Nov. 21, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; borne 

as absent sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., from July 20, 

1S64, until Aug., 1864; sent north sick Sept. 19, 1S65; mustered out 

Oct. 17, 1865, at New York City. 
Duncans, William. Enrolled Nov. 13, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863, 

borne as absent sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La. f from 
July 20, 1864, until Dec, 1864; discharged on surgeon's certificate 
June 8, 1S65. 
Dusenbury, Lewis. Enrolled Nov. 11, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

died at Camp Parapet, La., Dec 21, 1864. 
Evans, John W. Enrolled Nov. 14, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; borne 

as sick in hospital, Camp Parapet, La., from May 8, 1864, until Aug. 




LIEUT. ALLEN F. CAMERON 

From a recent picture 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 233 

13, 1S64, when he was discharged at New Orleans, La., on suigeon'a 

certificate. 
Fields, John. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63: mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Fisher, Henry. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Fisher, William J. Enrolled Nov. 16,1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Francis, Brister. Enrolled Nov. 13, 1S63 ; mustered Nov. :- 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Francis, Charles II. Enrolled Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Nov. _- 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Gibson, Edward. Enrolled and mustered Sept. 4, 1S63; attached to Co. 

I Feb. 12, 1864, for transportation to Second Battalion, hut was never 

assigned lo any company; died April 22, 1S64. 
Gillis, Charles. Enrolled Nov. 12, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63: de- 
serted from Camp Parapet, La., Dec. 15, 1S64. 
Glover, John. Enrolled and mustered Nov. 26, 1863: mustered out 

Oct. 2, 1865. 
Graves, Jonathan. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, [863 ; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Green, George. Enrolled Nov. 25, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Green, Thomas. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Greenwich, Albert J. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 

1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Hamilton, Theodore. Enrolled Nov. 11, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 

1863; deserted from Camp Parapet, La., July 1, 1865. 
Harmon, George W. Enrolled Nov. u, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; 

sent north sick ; mustered out at New York City, Oct. 20, 1S65. 
Hazel, Allen. Enrolled Nov. iS, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; died 

at Camp Parapet, La., May 28, 1S64. 
Hill, Charles E. Enrolled Nov. 11, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Jackson, George Hamilton. Enrolled Nov. 20, 1863; mustered Nov. 

28, 1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Jackson, George Henry. Enrolled Nov. 12, 1863; mustered Nov. 2,8, 

1863; discharged on surgeon's certificate May 9, 1S65. 
Jackson, John. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; acting 

sergeant-major of the battalion Sept., 1864, and so borne until Dec, 

1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Jefferson, Nathaniel. Enrolled Nov. 19, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S, 

1863; on recruiting service in Washington. D. C, Dec. 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



234 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Johnson, Charles. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Johnson, David. Enrolled Dec. 9, 1863; mustered Feb. 10, 1864; de- 
serted from Camp Parapet, La., Nov. 29, 1864. 

Johnson, John. Enrolled Nov. 11, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, John J. Enrolled Nov. 21, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 
sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., July, 1S64, and so borne 
until Sept., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jones, James Edward. Enrolled Nov. 19, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 
1863; died at Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 26, 1864. Also borne as 
Edward Jones. 

Jones, William. Enrolled Nov. 12, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Kane, Alfred. Enrolled Nov. 20, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Lee, John. Enrolled Nov. 14, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; borne as 
absent sick in hospital at Camp Parapet, La., from May 8, 1864, 
until July, 1864; borne as sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, 
La., from July 20, 1864, until Aug., 1S64: died at Camp Parapet, La., 
Nov. 3, 1864. 

Lewis, Jesse. Enrolled Nov. 24, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; died at 
Camp Parapet, La., Dec. 7, 1S64. 

Lewis, Robert. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; borne 
as wagoner Dec, 1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Llnden, Robert. Enrolled Nov. 20, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Logan, Albert. Enrolled Nov. 14, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Lucas, James. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S, 1S63 ; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., Feb. io ; 1865. 

Mackey, George. Enrolled Nov. iS, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Mann, Elias. Enrolled Nov. 23, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Merritt, John. Enrolled Nov. 13, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S, 1863; de- 
serted from Dutch Island, R. I., March 30, 1S64. 

Newcomb, William W. Enrolled Nov. 21, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 
1863; died in Regimental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 4, 1864. 

Oliver, Moses. Enrolled Nov. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 2S, 1863 ; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Peters, Charles II. Enrolled Nov. 19, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S, 1S63; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 24, 1864. 

Postlev, John. Enrolled Nov. 13, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S, 1S63; sent 
north sick Sept. 19, 1S65 ; mustered out at New York City, Oct. 19, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 235 

Purcell, Calvin. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; 

borne as absent sick in hospital at Camp Parapet, La., from lune 9, 

1864, until July, 1S64 ; sent north sick Sept. 19, 1865 : discharged on 

surgeon's certificate at De Camp General Hospital, David's Island, 

New York Harbor, Oct. 26, 1865. 
Ray, David A., Jr. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Feb. 15, 1864; 

deserted at Dutch Island April 1, 1S64. 
Ray, Philip. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S. 18G3; teamster 

July, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Redder, Jacob W. Enrolled Nov. 19, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; 

borne as absent sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., from 

April 25, 1S64, until April 30, 1S64, when he died. 
Redmond, John R. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Rich, John. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863 ; died in 

Regimental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 1, 1864. 
Roberts, James. Enrolled Nov. 21, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Russell, Daniel J. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Scott, J. Wesley. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1 Sf> 3 ; 

died at Camp Parapet, La., Sept. iS, 1864. 
Sherman, Henry. Enrolled Nov. 13, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Sills, Edward H. Enrolled Nov. 13, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 18635 

died at Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 31, 1864. 
Smith, David. Enrolled Nov. 25, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 18635 died 

at Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 2, 1864. 
Smith, Harry. Enrolled Feb. S, 1S64; mustered Feb. 10, 1S64; mustered 

out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Smith, Henry C. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Smith, James L. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; borne 

as absent sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., from July 20, 

1S64, until July 24, 1S64, when he died. 
Smith, William. Enrolled Nov. iS, 1863; mustered Nov. 2S, 1S63 ; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Snyder, Lcke. Enrolled Nov. 21, 1S63: mustered Nov. 28, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Stanton, William J. Enrolled Nov. 25, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1S63; 

died at Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 13, 1S64. 
Steward, Elijah R. A. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 

1863; died at Camp Parapet, La., Dec. 22, 1864. 
Stewart, Charles. Enrolled Nov. 23, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



236 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Tenyck, Felix. Enrolled Nov. 21, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Thomas, Henry. Enrolled Nov. 12, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Thomas, James. Enrolled Nov. 20. 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; died 

at Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 11, 1864. 
Thomas, John. Enrolled Nov. 18, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; hos- 
pital attendant Sept., 1864, and so borne until Jan., 1865; mustered 

out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Thompson, George H. Enrolled Nov. 14, 1S63 ; mustered Nov. 28, 

1863 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Tillett, Benjamin. Enrolled Nov. 11, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Titus, Ross W. Enrolled Nov. 23, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863 

borne as absent sick in hospital at Camp Parapet, La., from June 1 

1864, until July, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Turner, John H. Enrolled Oct. 19, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863 

discharged on surgeon's certificate Sept. iS, 1865. 
Valentine, John S. Enrolled Nov. 23, 1863; mustered Nov. 2S, 1863 

died at Camp Parapet, La., Feb. 1, 1865. 
Van Camp, Charles. Enrolled Nov. 23, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Vance, William A. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 15, 1S64; mustered 

out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Van Ness, Jeremiah. Enrolled Nov. 17, 1S63: mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Wagoner, Henry. Enrolled Feb. 8, 1864; mustered Feb. 10, 1864; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Walker, James. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Nov. 2S, 1863; died 

in Regimental Hospital, Dutch Island, R. I., Feb. 18, 1864. 
Warren, John. Enrolled Nov. 20, 1863; mustered Nov. 2S, 1863; died 

at Camp Parapet, La., Sept. 9, 1864. 
Watkins, Edward. Enrolled Nov. 18, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
White, Anthony T. Enrolled Nov. 20, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

died at Camp Parapet, La., Jan. 1, 1865. 
White, Willis. Enrolled Nov. 20, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; died 

at Camp Parapet, La., June 4, 1S64. 
Wiley, Henry. Enrolled Nov. 25, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Williams, Benjamin F. Enrolled Nov. 14, 1863; mustered Nov. 28, 

1863; mustered out Oct t 2, 1865. 
Williams, Edward. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Williams, George. Enrolled Nov. 23, 1S63 ; mustered Nov. 28, 1863; 

borne as absent sick in hospital at Camp Parapet, La., from May 8, 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 237 

1864, until Julv, 18G4; hospital attendant Oct., 1864, and »o borne 

until Jan.. 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Wilson, William J. W. Enrolled Nov. 25, 1863; mustered Nov 28, 

1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Woods, John. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63; mustered Nov. 2S, 1863; mm- 

tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Young, William H. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Nov. 28 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



COMPANY K. 

Captains. 

A. Richmond Rawson. Enrolled as sergeant Co. D, First Rhode Island 
Detached Militia, April 17, 1S61 ; mustered May 2, 1S61 ; mustered out 
Aug. 2, 1S61 ; commissioned second lieutenant Co. D, Third Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery, Sept. 13, 1S61 ; mustered Oct. 9, 1861 ; borne 
as absent sick from Dec. 9, 1S61, until Jan., 1S62; ordered to Fort 
Seward, Jan. 4, 1S62, and so borne until July, 1862; promoted to tirM 
lieutenant March II, 1862, and mustered in to date March 2 3, 1862; 
acting quartermaster at Bay Point, Oct., 1S62 ; on detached service 
Julv, 1S62, with Light Co. B, First United States Artillery, and so 
borne until discharged by reason of promotion to captain in the Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery; date of commission Jan. 3, 
1864; mustered in to date Jan. 16, 1S64; assigned to Co. K: borne as 
absent sick in Providence, R. I., from Jan. 7, 1S64, until May 6, 1604, 
when he died. 

Oscar R. Livingston, Enrolled and mustered as private Co. B, Fifth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Sept. 10, 1S63; promoted sergeant; 
borne on recruiting service at New Berne, N. C, from March 1, 1S64, 
until June, 1864; discharged to accept commission as captain Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, May 25, 1S64; mustered in July 29, 
1864; assigned to Co. K; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

First Lieutenants. 

Charles W. Munroe. Enrolled as private Co. C, Fourth Rhode bland 
Infantry, Sept. 5, 1S61 ; mustered Oct. 30, 1S61 ; promoted firsl ser- 
geant Sept. 25, 1861; promoted second lieutenant and transferred to 
Co. G, Oct. 11, 1S61 ; promoted first lieutenant Nov. 20, 1S61 ; re- 
signed Aug. 11, 1862; commissioned first lieutenant Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Feb. 23, 1SO4 ; mustered March 8, 
1864: assigned to Co. K; on general court-martial, May 9, 1S64; in 
command of company from March, 1864, to Aug., 1864, and from 
Oct., 1864, to Jan., 1865; mustered out Oct. 2. 1865. 



238 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

William F. Tansey. Enrolled as private Co. G, First Rhode Island 
Detached Militia, April 17, 1861 ; mustered May 2, 1S61 ; mustered 
out Aug. 2, 1861 ; enrolled as sergeant Co. C, Fifth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery, Oct. 15, 1861; mustered Dec. 16, 1S61; promoted 
first sergeant Feb. 1, 1863; discharged April 16, 1S64, to accept com- 
mission as first lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, 
March 16, 1864; mustered April 26, i86_| ; ordered to serve on general 
court-martial, Nov. 5, 1864, and so borne until Jan., 1S65; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Second Lieutenants. 

Martin S. Smith. Commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery Jan. 8, 1864; mustered Jan. 23, 1S64; assigned 
to Co. K ; appointed instructor of school of instruction for non-com- 
missioned officers of Companies I, K, and M, Jan. 7, 1S65 ; appointed 
acting quartermaster Third Battalion July 28, 1S65 ; appointed acting 
regimental quartermaster Sept. 18, 1S65, until Nov., 1865: mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Pardon Mason. Enrolled as private Co. E, First Rhode Island Detached 
Militia, April 17, 1S61 ; mustered May 2, 1861 ; promoted corporal 
June 5, 1S61 ; mustered out Aug. 2, 1S61 ; commissioned captain Co. 
F, Third Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Aug. 27, 1S61 ; mustered into 
date Sept. 7, 1S61 ; ordered to Fort Seward Jan. 4, 1S62; ordered from 
Tybee Island May, 1862; ordered on special duty Feb. 2, 1863; re- 
signed April 29, 1S63 ; commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Feb. 4, 1864; mustered in Feb. 13, 
1864; assigned to Co. K; borne as acting battalion adjutant from 
April 23, 1S64, until May 27, 1864; borne as absent sick from May 22, 
1S64, until June, 1864; ordered on duty as acting battalion quarter- 
master July 21, 1S64; relieved from duty by order Oct. 30, 1864; again 
ordered on special duty as acting battalion quartermaster Nov. 5, 1864, 
and so borne until March 3, 1S65; honorably discharged May 15, 1S65. 

First Sergeants. 

William H. Johnson. Enrolled as private Nov. 26, 1863; mustered 
Dec. 17, 1S63; promoted corporal Jan. 12, 1S64; promoted sergeant 
Feb. 17, 1864; detailed as sergeant-major Third Battalion, Dec, 1864; 
promoted first sergeant; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

James M. Hargrove. Enrolled as private Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec. 
17, 1863; teamster Jan., 1864, and so borne until July, 1S64; promoted 
corporal July 3, 1864; promoted sergeant March 4, 1865; promoted 
first sergeant April 12, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, i86v 

Sergeants. 

Philip C Alston. Enrolled as private Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 
1863; promoted sergeant same date; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Erastus Beverly. Enrolled as private Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 
1863; promoted sergeant same date; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 239 

William Perry. Enrolled as private Nov. 28, iSf.3: mustered De 
1S63; promoted sergeant same date ; mustered out Oct. 2. [865 

Theodore Johnson. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Dec. 17 
detailed as quartermaster sergeant Dec., 1863, and so borne until I 
1864; sick in Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R, 1., 
April, 1S64, and so borne until Aug., 1864; borne as acting battalion 
sergeant-major from Sept. 4, 1864, until Oct., 1S64; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Edward H.Jackson. Enrolled as private Dec. 5, [863; mustered Dec. 
17, 1S63; promoted corporal same date; promoted sergeant June 25, 
1865 ; mustered out at New York City, Oct. 23, 1865. 

Stephen Chavis. Enrolled as private Dec. 4, 1863J mustered Dec. 17, 
1863; promoted corporal; promoted sergeant July 3, 1864; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Benjamin F. Johnson. Enrolled as private Dec. 2, 1S63; mustered Dec. 
17, 1S63; corporal; sergeant Feb. 21, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2. 

John Bland. Enrolled as private Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 17 

promoted corporal Dec. 29, 1S64 ; promoted sergeant March (., 1865; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

William A. Holmes. Enrolled as private Nov. 28, 1863 ; mustered D c. 
17, 1S63; promoted corporal same date; sick in Lovell General Hos- 
pital] Portsmouth Grove, R. I., from April, 1S64, until Sept., tSfi.4.; 
promoted sergeant April 12, 1865; mustered out at New York City 
Oct. 23, 1S65. 

Corporals. 

Joseph Robinson. Enrolled as private Nov. 30, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 
1863; promoted corporal same date; sick in Lovell General Hospital, 
Portsmouth Grove, R. I., and so borne until April 11, 1864, when dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate. 

Alfred E. Jarvis. Enrolled as private Nov. 30, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 
1S63; promoted corporal same date; sick in Corps d'Afrique General 
Hospital, New Orleans, La., July, 1S64, and so borne until Feb. 27, 
1865, when he was discharged on surgeon's certificate. 

John W. Lee. Enrolled as private Nov. zt;, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 
1863; promoted corporal same date; died in Regimental Hospital, 
Camp Parapet, La., Dec. 10, 1S64. 

Philip W. Talbot. Enrolled as private Nov. 26, 1S63; mustered Dec. 
17, 1863; promoted corporal Feb. 17, 1S64; died in Regimental Hos- 
pital, Camp Parapet, La., Dec. 14, 1864. 

Harvey S. Dyer. Enrolled as private Nov. 30, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 
1863; promoted corporal; mustered out Oct. 2. 1865. Also borne as 
Henry S. Dyer. 

Franklin Fisher. Enrolled as private Nov. 28, 1S63; mustered D 

1863; promoted corporal Feb. 17, 1864; died in Regimental Hospital, 
Camp Parapet, La., June 21, 1864. 



24O FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

John A. Loucks. Enrolled as private Nov. 2S, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 

1863; promoted corporal May 1, 1S64; borne as absent sick in Corps 

d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, La., from July 20, 1864, 

until Sept. 6, 1S64, when he died. 
John W. Freeman. Enrolled as private Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 

1S63; promoted corporal July 3, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Chauncey J. Vincent. Enrolled as private Dec. 3, 1863; mustered Dec. 

17, 1863; promoted corporal July 3, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Charles Hardy. Enrolled as private Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 

1863; promoted corporal July 3, 1S64; died in Regimental Hospital, 

Camp Parapet, La., Dec. 21, 1S64. 
George W. Goans. Enrolled as private Dec. 4, 1S63 ; mustered Dec. 17, 

1863; promoted corporal Oct. 11, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Elijah Middleton. Enrolled as private Nov. 2, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 

1S63; in ordnance department at Camp Parapet Aug., 1864; assistant 

ordnance sergeant Sept., 1S64, and so borne until Dec, 1864; pro- 
moted corporal Dec. 29, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
John Lairs. Enrolled as private Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 

promoted corporal Jan. 23, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Milton Outland. Enrolled as private Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 

1863; promoted corporal Feb. 21, 1S65; died at De Camp General 

Hospital, David's Island, New York Harbor, Oct. 3, 1S65. 
Richard Thornton. Enrolled as private Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 

17, 1863; promoted corporal Feb. 29, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 

1865. 
Joseph Calvert. Enrolled as private Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 

1863; promoted corporal March 1, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
David Faulkner. Enrolled as private Jan. 28, 1864; mustered Feb. 2, 

1864; promoted corporal April 12, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Calvin Reed. Enrolled as private Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 

hospital attendant Nov., 1S64; promoted corporal April 12, 1865; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
John W. Wright. Enrolled as private Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 

1863; artificer, July, 1864, and so borne until Sept., 1S64; promoted 
, corporal April 12, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Henry Thompson, ist. Enrolled as private Nov. 30, 1S63; mustered 

Dec. 17, 1863; corporal June 2^, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
William A. Robinson. Enrolled as private Nov. 30, 1863; mustered 

Dec. 17, 1S63; promoted corporal June 23, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2. 

1865. 

Musician. 

Judson Thomas. Enrolled as private Nov. 30, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 
1863; subsequently detailed as musician; died in Regimental Hos 
pital, Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 6, 1864. 




LIEUT. GEORGE W. WEEDEN 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 24 1 

Privates. 

Baker, Jeremiah. Enrolled Nov. 26, 18635 mustered Dec. 17. 1603; 
mustered out Oct. 2. 1865. 

Banks, Perry. Enrolled Nov. 30, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; me- 
tered out Oct. 2. 1 

Bennett, William II. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
mustered out at New York City, Oct. 23, iSn^. 

Benson, Lafayette G. M. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863s mustered D 

1S63; sent to hospital July 20, 1SG4; died in Regimental Hospital at 
Camp Parapet, La., Nov. 11, 1S64. 

Berry, William. Enrolled Nov. 30, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1803: mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bragg, John. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Briggs, George W. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, iS6v 

Broadit, Robert. Enrolled Nov. iS, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Brown, Charles W. Enrolled Nov. 23, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Bryan, Richard. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Chase, Samuel W. Enrolled Dec. 1, 1SC3; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Cheen, Nicholas. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., June 8, 1S63. 
'Congo, William. Enrolled Dec. 2, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., June S, 1" 

Coon, William W. Enrolled Dec. 2, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863: dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., Feb. 13, 1865. 

Cooper, Isaac. Enrolled Nov. 27, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17,1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Copeland, Allen. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63; mustered Dec 17, 1863; 
died in Regimental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 3, 1S64. 

Craig, Peter. Enrolled Dec. 3, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; borne as 
absent on furlough from Jan. 25, 1S64, until Feb. 1, 1S64; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Defrieze, Abraham. Enrolled Nov. 27, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Deman, Webster. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mus 
tered out at New York City, Oct. 23, 1865. 

Depew, Hugh. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; died in 
De Camp General Hospital, David's Island, N. Y., Oct. 3, 1865. 

Dorsey, Thomas. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63 ; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; de- 
serted at Camp Parapet, La., June 14, 1S65. 
16 



242 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Debois, Fortin. Enrolled Dec. 2, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 186?. 

Dumpson, Daniel. Enrolled Nov. 28, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Duncan, Alfred. Enrolled Nov. 28, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Dwight, Charles H. Enrolled Dec. 1, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Edwards, John W. Enrolled March 25, 1864; mustered March 28, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Erls, Thomas C. Enrolled Nov. 27, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 26, 1865. 

Fletcher, Samuel. Enrolled Nov. 28, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
died in Regimental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., July 5, 1865. 

Franklin, William H. Enrolled Dec. 2, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Fry, Moses. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; deserted 
at Camp Parapet, La., Jan. 12, 1865. 

Gaines, Samuel. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; de- 
serted at Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 20, 1865. 

Garner, George. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mus- 
tered out at New York City, Oct. 21, 1865. 

Garner, James H. Enrolled Nov. 27, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Gordon, John. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; died 
in Regimental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 18, 1865. 

Green, Ira. Enrolled Nov. 28, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; borne as 
absent sick in Corps d'Afrique Hospital, New Orleans, La., from July 
20, 1864, until Sept., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Green, John. Enrolled Dec. 1, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; com- 
mitted suicide at Camp Parapet, La., May 16, 1864. 

Harmon, William. Enrolled Dec. 2, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Harrison, Jonathan. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hatfield, James H. Enrolled Dec. 1, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Henderson, Neverel T. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hogan, Henry W. Enrolled Dec. 1, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; ab- 
sent sick in Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I., Feb., 
1864, and so borne until March 8, 1S64, when he was discharged on 
surgeon's certificate. 

Howard, Richard. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 243 

Jackson, William A. Enrolled Nov. 30, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as William II. J.u KSOK. 

Jackson, William G. Enrolled Nov. 25, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jefferson, Thomas. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec 17. [863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, Charles II. Enrolled Dec. 1, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
assistant commissary sergeant Feb., 1864, and so borne until April, 
1864; died in Regimental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., June 2, 1864. 

Johnson, John. Enrolled Nov. 2S, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Johnson, Joseph W. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
died in Regimental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., Nov. 24, 1S64. 

Johnson, Peter H. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 25, 1864; died in Reg! 
mental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 7. 1864. 

Johnson, Walter E. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct 2, 1S65. Also borne as Walter C. Johnson. 

Johnson, William H. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 17/1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jones, Thornton. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
borne as absent sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., from 
July 24, 1864, until Dec, 1S64; discharged on surgeon's certificate 
at Camp Parapet, La., May 5, 1S65. 

Labiel, William II. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1S63: mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
borne as absent sick in Corps d'Airique General Hospital. New Or 
leans, La., from July 20, 1864, until Aug. 4, 1864, when he died. 

Larkins, John. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Latham, Wiley. Enrolled Dec. 1, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Lee, Isaac. Enrolled Dec. 2, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Lewis, Edward. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63; mustered Dec 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

McGuinness, Florence. Enrolled Nov. 27, 1863; mustered Dec 17, 
1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, iS6<;. 

McGuinness, Joseph. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Dei 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

McQuarter, Peter. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63 ; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Mills, Henry. Enrolled Dec 4, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mus- 
tered out at New York City, Oct. 21, 1S65, as Henry Miles. 

Mills, William W. Enrolled Nov. 21, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
died in Regimental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., May 12, 1S64. 

Moore, Wiley. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



244 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Moore, William A. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
borne as absent sick from April 2, 1S64, until Sept., 1864; wagoner, 
Nov., 1S64; deserted from Camp Parapet, La., Sept. 6, 1S65. 

Murray, Abraham. Enrolled Dec. 2, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
sick in Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R.I., April, 1S64, 
and so borne until Sept., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Nelson, Charles C. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Nelson, Charles C, 20. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 
1S63; died in Regimental Hospital at Camp Parapet, La., July 1, 1865. 

Noland, William P. Enrolled Dec. 1, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Overman, Isaac. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Peco, William H. Enrolled Dec. 2, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; sick 
in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, La., July, 1864, 
and so borne until Dec, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Peterson, Peter S. Enrolled Dec. 3, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Peterson, Richard W. Enrolled Nov. 27, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 
1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Peterson, Thomas H. Enrolled Dec. 3, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63 ; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Pupore, John H. Enrolled Nov. 28, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Reese, Edward. Enrolled Dec. 3, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Ridley, Robert. Enrolled Jan. 28, 1864; mustered Feb. 2, 1864; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., Feb. 2, 1865. 

Robinson, Thomas H. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 25, 1864; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Riley, Jacob. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; hospital 
nurse Jan., 1864; borne as hospital nurse from May, 1864, until Nov., 
1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Ryers, George. Enrolled Dec. 3, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Sanders, Edward. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Sarsnett, Edward. Enrolled Sept. 8, 1863; mustered Feb. 9, 1864 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Scoller, William. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863 
mustered out at New York City, Oct. 21, 1865. 

Scott, George. Enrolled Nov. 25, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; de- 
serted at Camp Parapet, La., April 9, 1S65. 

Scudder, William G. Enrolled Nov. 30, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
died in Regimental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., May 20, 1864. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 245 

Simpson, John. Enrolled Dec. 1, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, [863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Simpson, Peter. Enrolled Dec. 1, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; mus- 
tered OUt Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Small, James H. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; hos- 
pital nurse Aug., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2. 

Small, John \V. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Smallwood, James H. Enrolled Nov. 30, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
hospital attendant Sept., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Smith, Edward. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; died 
in Regimental Hospital, New Orleans, La., May 6, 1865. 

Snivelly, George. Enrolled Dec. 3, 1S63 ; mustered Dec. 17, 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., June 8, 1 
Also borne as Sniverly. 

Sniverxy, Samuel. Enrolled Dec. 3, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; de- 
serted at Camp Parapet, La., Feb. 3, 1S65. 

Stanley, Charles H. Enrolled Nov. iS, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
mustered out at New York City, Oct. 23, 1865. 

Stevenson, Robert M. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Feb. 5, 1S64; 
hospital nurse Feb., 1S64, and so borne until July, 1S64; borne as 
absent sick in Corps dAfrique General Hospital, New Orleans, La., 
from July 20, 1S64, until Aug. 14, 1S64, when he died. 

Strong, Lafayette. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
deserted from Camp Parapet, La., April S, 1S65. 

Susy, Frank. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Talbot, William. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Taylor, Richard. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Thomas, George H. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63 ; mustered Dec. 17, 1863 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Thomas, Walter. Enrolled Nov. 2S, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Thompson, Henry, 2d. Enrolled Dec. 4, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Thompson, Jeremiah. Enrolled Nov. 30, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63 
mustered out at New York City, Oct. 23, 1865. 

Vaxseers, Anthony M. Enrolled Dec. 3, 1S63; mustered De. 1; 

discharged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., June 8, 1865 

VerjUNIA, Usel. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1S63 ; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Washington, George. Enrolled Dec. 5. 1S63: mustered Dec. 17 
died in Regimental Hospital, Dutch Island, R. I., Feb. 19, 1S64. 



246 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Watson, Richard. Enrolled and mustered July 9, 1863 ; sent to Lovell 
General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I., Feb., 1S64, and borne as 
absent sick in hospital until Sept., 1864; discharged on surgeon's 
certificate at Camp Parapet, La., June 8, 1865. 

Wesley, Andrew, Enrolled Dec. 14, 1S63; mustered March 2, 1864; 
died in Regimental Hospital at Camp Parapet, La., July 30, 1S64. 

Wheeler, John W. Enrolled Nov. 30, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63 ; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

White, Mordecai. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
borne as absent sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Or- 
leans, La., from July 20, 1864, until Sept., 1864; hospital attendant 
Dec, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Wigden, Cyrus B. Enrolled Nov. 28, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Wigden, William A. Enrolled Nov. 28, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, La., July, 
1S64, and so borne until Oct., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Williams, Andrew. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Williams, John. Enrolled Nov. 30, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Williams, John H. Enrolled Nov. 30, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Wilmer, John W. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1863; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Wolcott, Edward. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Yates, David. Enrolled Nov. 26, 1S63; mustered Dec. 17, 1863 ; wag- 
oner, Sept., 1864, and so borne until Nov., 1864; deserted at Camp 
Parapet, La., Sept. 6, 1S65. 



COMPANY L. 

Captain. 

George A. Spink. Enrolled as private in Co. D, First Rhode Island 
Detached Militia, April 17, 1S61; mustered May 2, 1S61 ; mustered 
out Aug. 2, 1S61 ; commissioned first lieutenant Co. C, Ninth Rhode 
Island Infantry, May 26, 1S62 ; mustered in same date ; mustered out 
Sept. 2, 1S62 ; commissioned captain Co. I, Twelfth Rhode Island 
Infantry, Sept. 20, 1S62 ; mustered Oct. 13, 1S62 ; mustered out July 29, 
1S63; commissioned captain Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artil- 
leryman. 4, 1S64; mustered Jan. 15, 1S64; assigned to Co. L; presi- 
dent of regimental court-martial, May, 1S64; ordered on detached 
service in command of Fort Banks, La., June 30, 1864, and so borne 
until muster out; assumed command of Third Battalion Dec. 10, 1S64, 
and again May 25, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 247 

First Lieutenants. 

George W. H. Allen. Enrolled and mastered as private Battery K. 
First Rhode Island Light Artillery, Sept. 30, 1861 ; promoted' cor- 
poral Nov. iS, 1S61 ; promoted sergeant Nov. 21, iS^j; wounded 
slightly at Gettysburg, Pa., July 20, iSf, 3 ; re-enlisted Dec. 7th, and 
mustered as a veteran Dec. 11, 1863; discharged to accept appoint- 
ment as first lieutenant in Co. L, Fourteenth Rhode Island 1: 
Artillery, Feb. 4, 1864; mustered March 23, [864; ordered on detached 
service as acting aid-de-camp at Post Headquarters, April 21, [864, and 
so borne until July, 1S64; ordered on special duty as acting adjutant 
Third Battalion, Aug. 19, 1S64, to Jan. 10, 1S65; on general court- 
martial, New Orleans, La., July 29, 1865; detached as acting assistant 
adjutant-general of the District of Carrollton from 1 
May 7, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

John N. Bollig. Enrolled as private Co. G, Seventh Rhode Island 
Infantry, Aug. 22, 1S62 ; mustered Sept. 4. [863; wounded at the 
battle of Fredericksburg, Va., Dec. 13, 1S62, and sent to hospital and 
borne as absent sick until Feb., 1S63; transferred to the Veteran Re- 
serve Corps, Sept. 16, 1S63; discharged July to accept 
appointment as first lieutenant in Fourteenth Rhode Island I! 
Artillery, commission dated July 28, 1864; mustered Sept. 2. 1 
assigned to Co. L; detached as aid-de-camp at Post Headquarters, Jan . 
29, 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 

Second Lieutenants. 

Charles M. Smith. Enrolled and mustered as private in Co. I), Tenth 
Rhode Island Infantry. May 26, 1862; mustered out Sept. 1, 1S62 ; 
enrolled as sergeant in Co. I, Eleventh Rhode Island Infantry, Sept. 

15, 1S62 ; mustered Oct. 1, 1S62 ; mustered out July 13, 1863; commis- 
sioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, 
Jan. 12, 1S64; mustered Jan. 30, 1864; assigned to Co. L; detached 
for duty in Co. K, by order dated Nov. 17, 1S04 ; acting adjutant Third 
Battalion from May, 1S65, to Sept., 1865 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Herbert F. Bennett. Enrolled and mustered as private Battery K. 
First Rhode Island Light Artillery, Sept. 30, 1S61 ; promoted corporal 
Jan. 4, 1S63; re-enlisted Dec. 2^, and mustered as a veterai 
1S63; discharged to accept appointment as second lieutenant Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Feb. 3, 1 864; mustered 

16, 1S64; assigned to Co. L; mustered <>ut Oct. 2, 1S65. 

First Sergeant. 
Richard L. Sheckles. Enrolled as private Dec. 11, 1S63; ma 
Dec. 31, 1S63; promoted Bergeanl same date: promoted fit- 
June 15, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Quartermaster Sergeant. 
George S. Whitfield. Enrolled as private Dec 9. 1S63 ; mustered Dec. 
31, 1S63; promoted quartermaster sergeant same date; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 



248 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Sergeants. 

Samuel A. Crampton. Enrolled as private Dec. 11, 1863; mustered Dec. 

31, 1S63; promoted sergeant same date; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
William H. Manx. Enrolled as private Dec. 11, 1S63 ; mustered Dec. 

31, 1S63; promoted sergeant; color bearer June, 1S64; died in Regi- 
mental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 1, 1S64. 
John Pell. Enrolled as private Nov. 14, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 

promoted corporal ; promoted sergeant; died at Camp Parapet, La., 

Nov. 1, 1S64. 
William H. Becket. Enrolled as private Dec. 19, 1863; mustered Dec. 

31, 1863; promoted corporal same date; promoted sergeant June 1, 

1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
George W. Tate. Enrolled as private Dec. 21, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 

1863; promoted corporal April 22, 1864; promoted sergeant June 15, 

1864; acting ordnance sergeant Oct., 1864, and so borne until Jan., 

1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Alfred P. Ennis. Enrolled as private Aug. 15, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 

1S63; promoted corporal April 22, 1864; promoted sergeant June 17, 

1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Alfred Enis. 
John H. Ferguson. Enrolled as private Aug. 19, 1863; mustered Dec. 

31, 1S63; promoted corporal same date; promoted sergeant Aug. 1, 

1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Jones A. Brown. Enrolled as private Oct. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 

1S63; promoted corporal Aug. 13, 1864; promoted sergeant Dec. 1, 

[864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Corporals. 

William Livingston. Enrolled as private Dec. 11, 1863; mustered Dec. 

31, 1S63; promoted corporal same date; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Daniel H. Smith. Enrolled as private Dec. 15, 1863; mustered Dec. 

31, 1S63; promoted corporal same date; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
John Smith, 2D. Enrolled as private Dec. 19, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 

1863; promoted corporal same date; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Adam Lee. Enrolled as private Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 

promoted corporal same date; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
David D. Williamson. Enrolled as private Dec. 21, 1863; mustered 

Dec. 31, 1S63; promoted corporal; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
John H. Docket. Enrolled as private Aug. 11, 1S63 ; mustered Dec. 31, 

1863; promoted corporal June 15, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Also borne as John A. Docket. 
Joseph Downs. Enrolled as private Jan. 2S, 1S64; mustered Feb. 2, 1864; 

promoted corporal June 15, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Moses Foskey. Enrolled as private Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Feb. 11, 

1864; promoted corporal June 15, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
William H. Jones. Enrolled as private Dec. 11, 1863; mustered Dec. 

31, 1S63; promoted corporal June 15, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 




LIEUT. CHARLES L. STAFFORD 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 249 

John F. Magruder. Enrolled as private Dec. 19, 1S63; musten 

31, 1863; in ordnance department June, 1S64; promoted corporal Jul v 
6, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

George W. Hawkins. Enrolled as private Dec. 19, 1S63; muster. 
31, 1S63; promoted corporal Jul v 6, 1S64; mu-tered out Oct. 2, 1 

Musicians. 
Randolph Jones. Enrolled Nov. 20, 1S63; mustered Feb. 5, 

originally served as private; mustered out Oct. :. 1 
James W. Ray. Enrolled Dec. S, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63: origi- 
nally served as private; mustered out Oct. :. [865. 

Privates. 

Abbott, George M. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1 S63 ; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Adams, William H. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1 S65 . 

Allen, Charles H. Enrolled Dec. 15, 1863; mustered Dec. 31. 
deserted from Dutch Island, R. I., March 30, 1864. 

Anthony, Leander E. Enrolled Dec. S, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., June 26, 1S64. 

Bates, John R. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Bennett, George W. Enrolled Dec. 11, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Bentley, Sampson. Enrolled March 12, 1S64; borne as sick in General 
Hospital, New Orleans, La., from July 20, 1S64, until Nov., 1864 : 
mustered out at New York City, Oct. 21, 1S65. 

Betson, William. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
died in Regimental Hospital, Dutch Island, R. I., March n, 1S64. 

Bird, Joshua. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Blain, Joseph. Enrolled Dec. 9, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; deserted 
from Fort Banks, La., June 11, 1S65. 

Boardley, Benjamin. Enrolled Oct. 24, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Greenville, La., Feb. 9, 1S65. 

Bogart, George W. Detached as ambulance driver July, 1S64; died in 
Regimental Hospital at Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 7, 1S64. No other 
record. 

Boston, James E. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Bowe, Thomas. Enrolled Dec. 11, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Bradford, William B. Enrolled Dec. S, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
deserted from Camp Parapet, La., June 15, 1S64. 



25O FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Brocker, Abram. Enrolled Dec. 10, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Brown, David. Enrolled Dec. 14, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Brown, James. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Cables, Jesse. Enrolled as private Aug. 8, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 
1863; detailed as wagoner; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Carpenter, George. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate May 11, 1864. 

Carroll, Dennis. Enrolled Dec. 11, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
died in Regimental Hospital, Dutch Island, R. I., Jan. 6, 1864. 

Cole, Daniel. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Cole, Philip. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; died at 
Dutch Island, R. I., March 10, 1864. 

Conrad, Andrew B. Enrolled Nov. 28, 1S63 ; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
sick in Providence, R. I., Jan., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Corster, William B. G. Enrolled Dec. 10, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 
1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Coster. 

Coster, Emory E. Enrolled Dec. 10, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Greenville, La., Feb. 9, 1865. 
Also borne as Coester. 

Crystie, John. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Coystie. 

Dean, Moses. Enrolled Aug. 8, 1S63 ; mustered Dec. 31, 1863 ; discharged 
on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., June 8, 1S65. 

Debois, Thomas B. Enrolled Aug. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., July 16, 1865. 

Dennison, Asa. Enrolled Aug. 5, 1863; mustered Dec, 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Derritt, William. Enrolled Aug. 10, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., June 24, 1S65. 

Dorsey, John H. Enrolled Aug. 10, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Earl, Peter. Enrolled Aug. 10, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; wagoner 
Jan., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Fields, Charles H. Enrolled Aug. 10, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
sick in General Hospital, New Orleans, La., July, 1864, and so borne 
until Jan., 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Fleming, William J. Enrolled Aug. 7, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865; died at De Camp General Hospital, David's 
Island, New York Harbor, Oct. 20, 1865. 

Fletcher, David R. Enrolled Feb. 4, 1S64; mustered Feb. 5, 1864; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., June 5, 1864. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 25 I 

Fletcher, Roderick L. Enrolled Feb. 4, 1864; mustered Feb. 5, 1864; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., July 1, 1864. Also borne as Roderick S. 
Fletcher. 

Francis, Charles L. Enrolled Aug. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Gale, Samuel E. Enrolled Dec. 1, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Gardner, Thomas E. Enrolled Aug. 14, 1863; mustered Dec. 31 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Gibson, David. Enrolled March 12, 1S64; mustered March 14. 1864; de- 
serted from Fort Banks, La., June 11, 1 

Good, Hazaniah. Enrolled Dec. 5, 18635 mustered Dec. 31, 1863; borne 
as absent sick in Lovell General Hospitals Portsmouth Grove, R. I , 
from April 1, 1864, until Oct., 1864, when he died. 

Gordon, George. Enrolled Aug. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Grager, David J. Enrolled Aug. 12, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Haird, John. Enrolled Oct. 6, 1863; mustered Feb. 22, 1864; died in 
Regimental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 23, 1864. 

Hamilton, John. Enrolled Dec. 7, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hamlet, Edward E. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
deserted from Fort Banks, La., June 11, 1S65. 

Henderson, Harrison. Enrolled Jan. 25, 1S64; mustered Feb. 2, 18^4; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Henson, Thomas H. Enrolled Dec. 12, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Hill, John G. Enrolled Nov. 21, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., June 

Howard, David E. [See regimental quartermaster sergeant.] 

Howell, Paul. Enrolled Nov. 28, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Humphrey, Robert. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, i s ';, 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jackson. Augustus B. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jackson, Henry. Enrolled Dec. 7, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jackson, James M. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jackson, William. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, John. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; borne as 
absent sick in Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I., from 
Feb. 21, 1S64, until March 10, 1S64, when he died. 



252 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Johnson, William L. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., JuneS, 1S65. 

Jones, David. Enrolled Dec. S, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jones, John R. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Kenny, John. Enrolled Dec. 7, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; died at 
Regimental Hospital, Dutch Island, R. I., March 17, 1S64. 

Kelly, Archy. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Feb. 9, 1S64; deserted 
from Fort Banks, La., July 12, 1S64. 

Lee, Hezekiah, Enrolled Dec. 7, 1S63 ; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Lewis, Charles J. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., June 8, 1S65. 

Lucas, William H. Enrolled Dec. 11, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

McGill, William. Enrolled Dec. 7, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., Feb. 9, 1865. 

Miller, Benjamin. Enrolled Dec. 18, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., July 21, 1865. 

Miller, John N. Enrolled Dec. 10, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., Ma}' 5, 1S65. 

Mills, Charles. Enrolled Dec. 15, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; de- 
serted from Dutch Island, R. I., March 30, 1S64. 

Morton, Willis. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; sent 
to Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I., Feb. 21, 1864, 
and borne as absent sick until Sept., 1S64; died at Camp Parapet, La., 
Nov. 6, 1S64. 

Ormes, George M. Enrolled Dec. 11, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Page, John. Enrolled Dec. 7, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; deserted 
from Dutch Island, R. I., March 30, 1864. 

Payne, Lawrence. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Peters, William. Enrolled Dec 19, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; de- 
serted Feb. 10, 1864; returned from desertion Jan. 22, 1865; sentenced 
by general court-martial to confinement at Fort Pickens, Fla., for one 
year, order dated Feb. 2S, 1S65; released from confinement by special 
order dated Jan. 25, 1866, and ordered to report to chief mustering 
officer of state for discharge. No further record. 

Prime, William E. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Qualls, Lee. Enrolled Dec. 14, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Randall, Joseph B. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
sick in U. S. Barracks Hospital, New Orleans, La., April, 1S64, and 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 253 

so borne until June, 1864; borne ae in Regimental Hospital, Camp 
Parapet, La., from July 23, 1864, until Aug., [864; died at Camp 
Parapet May 17, 1S65. Also borne as Ranim 

Ray, Thomas. Enrolled Dec. 12, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Richards, Edmund. Enrolled Dec. 18, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 186}; 
deserted from Fort Banks, La., July 12, 1S64. 

Richardson, Benjamin J. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 
1S63; borne with Co. H from Jan. 21, isr, 4 , until Aug. 8, 1S04, when 
he returned to his company; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Roberts, Charles A. Enrolled Dec. 17, 18635 mustered Dec 31. 
died in Regimental Hospital, Dutch Island, R. I., Feb. 13, 1S64. 

Salter, James. Enrolled Dec. 26, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Sampson, William H. Enrolled Dec. 12, 1863; mustered Feb. 5, 1864; 
teamster March, 1864, and borne as wagoner and ambulance drlvei 
until Jan., 1865; mustered out Oct. 21, 1865. 

Sanford, James. Enrolled Dec. 18, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 18^.3; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., May 14, 1S64. 

Schoolmaker, Moses. Enrolled Sept. 28, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Schuyler, George. Enrolled Dec. 15, 1863; mustered Dec. 31,1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Scott, Michael S. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, I. a., May 10, ibO^. 

Seaton, George. Enrolled Dec. 9, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 25, 1865. 

Shaffer, James H. Enrolled Dec. 12, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Schaffer. 

Simms, James. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Simms, James W. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 19, 1S65. 

Siscoe, Richard. Enrolled Dec. 16, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Siscoe, Thomas. Enrolled Dec. 10, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Skanks, George. Enrolled Dec. 22, 1S63 ; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Skanks, Thomas C. Enrolled Dec. 30, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31. 1863; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Greenville, La., Fell. 9, 1865. 

Smith, Amos. Enrolled Dec. io, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 18^3; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Smith, Bristol. Enrolled Dec 14, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



254 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Smith, David. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Smith, John, ist. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; de- 
serted from Fort Banks, La., Aug. 27, 1864. 

Smith, John C. Enrolled Dec. 20, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; sent to 
Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I., Feb. 21, 1864, and 
borne as absent sick until June, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Stiness, Samuel. Enrolled and mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Strives, Samuel. Enrolled Dec. 10, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Susbury, Samuel B. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1863 ; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
in ordnance department June, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Taylor, Charles F. Enrolled Dec. 15, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
deserted from Dutch Island, R. I., Feb. 26, 1864. 

Taylor, Ebenezer. Enrolled Dec. 12, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
wagoner, July, 1864, and so borne during Aug. and Oct., 1864: mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Terrell, John B. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1963; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Thompson, Darius. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Thompson, Frank. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Thompson, Harvey B. Enrolled Dec. 12, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Thompson, Henry. Enrolled Dec. 10, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
died in Regimental Hospital March 13, 1864. 

Thompson, James A. Enrolled Dec. 14, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Thompson, John B. Enrolled Dec. 12, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; on 
detached duty at post headquarters June, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 
1865. 

Thompson, Singleton H. Enrolled Dec. 12, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 
1863; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Turner, William H. Enrolled Dec. 11, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Van Horn, Winfield B. Enrolled Dec. 3, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
deserted from Camp Parapet, La., June 15, 1864. 

Waldron, Berry L. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Wallace, Edmund S. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Washington, George. Enrolled Dec. 20, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; 
wagoner, June, 1S64; died at Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 5, 1864. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 255 

Washington, William. Enrolled Dec. 9, 1863; muttered Dec. 31, 1863; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., Sept. ia, 1S65. 

Wells, Robert. Enrolled Dec. i<> 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; de- 
serted from Dutch Island, R. I., Jan. 22, 1S64. 

Wheatley, Joshua. Enrolled Dec. ta, 1863; muttered Dec 31, 
died at Camp Parapet, La., June 2, 1S64. 

White, Peter. Enrolled Dec. 7, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; mut- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Williams, Edward. Enrolled Dec. 7, 1863; muttered Dec. 31, 1863; 
died in Regimental Hospital, Dutch Island, R. I., March B, 1864. 

Williams, George L. Enrolled Dec. 14, 1SG3; mustered Dec. II, 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Williams, Theodore. Enrolled Dec. 11, 1S63 ; muttered Dec. 31, 1863; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Williamson, William II. Enrolled Dec. 18, 1S63; mustered Dee. 31, 
1S63; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Wilson, Frank. Enrolled Dec. 7, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1863; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Wink, Abraham. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., May 1, 1865. 

Winthrop, Etiiraim". Enrolled Dec. 3, 1863; mustered Dec. 31. 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Woods, William. Enrolled Dec. iS, 1863; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; sen- 
tenced by general court-martial to confinement at hard labor at Fort 
Pickens, Fla., order dated April 30, 1S65; released Feb. 2. 1866; 
arrived at New Orleans Feb. 12, 1S66; sent to New York, Feb. 21, 1S66; 
no further record. 

Wright, John. Enrolled Dec. 7, 1S63; mustered Dec. 31, 1S63; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



COMPANY M. 



Captain. 

Henry K. Southwick. Comissioned second lieutenant Second Rhode 
Island Infantry. Aug. 29, 1S62 ; mustered in Sept. S, 1S62 ; attigned to 
Co. F; promoted first lieutenant Aug. 18, 1863; mustered as such 
Aug. 24, 1863; commanding Co. F, July 19, 1863, until Feb 13, 
when relieved from duty to accept appointment as captain in the Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery; commissioned captain Feb. 1, 
1864; mustered as such March 24, 1S64, and assigned to Co. M; com- 
manding Co. M from March 25 until July 15, 1S64, and from ( I 
1865, until regiment was disbanded at Portsmouth Grove, R. I., Nov. 
2, 1S65 ; judge advocate general court-martial from May 6 until June 17, 
1864; detached from regiment as acting assistant inspector-general 



256 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Department of the Gulf from July 6, 1864, until muster out Oct. 2. 
1865, with assignments to duty as follows : Acting assistant inspector- 
general District of Carrollton, La., from July 6, 1S64, until Jan. 24, 
1S65; acting assistant inspector-general for infantry and artillery, Dis- 
trict of West Florida, Jan. 15 until April 14, 1865; acting assistant 
inspector-general District of La Fourche, La., from April 20 until 
July 17, 1865 ; acting assistant inspector-general Eastern District of 
Louisiana (all of state south of Red River), from July 15 until Oct. 2, 
1S65 ; while acting assistant inspector-general of West Florida was 
also provost marshal of that district from March 18 until April 14, 1865. 

First Lieutenants. 

Warren Ralph. Enrolled and mustered as sergeant Co. A, Second 
Rhode Island Infantry, June 5, 1S61; 'discharged April 4, 1S64, to 
accept appointment as first lieutenant in Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery; mustered in April S, 1864; assigned to Co. M; de- 
tached for service in Chicago Mercantile Battery from June 25 until 
July 5, 1864; in command of Co. M from July 15, 1S64, until muster 
out, Oct. 2, 1865. 

George A. Pierce. Enrolled and mustered as private Co. F, Second 
Rhode Island Infantry, June 6, 1861 ; promoted corporal Nov. 1, 1862 ; 
re-enlisted as veteran volunteer Dec. 26, 1863; discharged at Brandy 
Station, Va., May 4, 1864, to accept appointment as first lieutenant 
in Fourteeenth Rhod Island Heavy Artillery, April 28, 1864; re-mus- 
tered to date from June 2, 1864; detached as judge advocate of general 
court-martial on three occasions, viz. : Aug. 10 and Sept. 28, 1S64, 
by order of Brig. -Gen. T. W. Sherman, and Oct 18, 1864, by order of 
Maj.-Gen. Canby ; acting quartermaster Third Battalion March 3 until 
July 28, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Second Lieutenants. 

Frank Frost. Enrolled and mustered as private Co. B, Tenth Rhode 
Island Infantry, May 26, 1862; mustered out Sept. 1, 1S62 ; enrolled 
as private Co. D, Eleventh Rhode Island Infantry, Sept. 10, 1S62; 
mustered Oct. 1, 1S62; mustered out July 13, 1863; commissioned 
second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Jan. 20, 
1864; mustered in same date; assigned to Co. M; re-mustered to date 
Dec. 24, 1S63; detailed for service in Chicago Mercantile Battery from 
June 25, 1864, until July 5, 1864; on duty as officer in charge of the 
guards at the U. S. General Hospital, Greenville, La., May 8, 1865; 
resigned June 14, 1865. 

Albert W. Delanah. Commissioned second lieutenant Co. B, Twelfth 
Rhode Island Infantry, Oct. 10,1862; mustered Oct. 13, 1862; pro- 
moted first lieutenant March 31, 1S63; mustered out July 29, 1863; 
commissioned second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy 
Artillery, Feb. 14, 1864; mustered in Feb. 23, 1864; assigned to Co. 
M; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 




LIEUT. CHARLES P. GAY 



From :i recent picture 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 257 

First Sergeant. 

Sylvester Burns. Enrolled as private Oct. 6, 1863s mustered l.m. 15, 
1864; promoted first sergeant Jan. 29, [864; mustered out O 

Quartermaster Sergeant. 

Nathaniel Scoggins. Enrolled as private Dec. 17,1863; mustered Jan. 
25, 1S64; promoted quartermaster sergeant Feb. 1, 1^4; mu 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Sergeants. 

Hannibal C. Bryan. Enrolled as private Dec. 31, 1863; mustered 
Feb. 5, iSfli; promoted sergeant; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Peter Bradford. Enrolled as private Nov. 13, 1SO3; mustered fan. 25, 
1864; promoted sergeant Jan. 25, 1S64; on special duty as pi 
sergeant at fort at Camp Parapet, June 14, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 
1865. 

William W. Hampton. Enrolled as private Dec. 19, 1863; mu 

Jan. 25, 1S64; promoted sergeant Jan. 25, 1864; acting sergeant- 
major Aug. 26, 1S64, and so borne until Sept. 9, 1S64; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Benjamin H. Lavender. Enrolled as private Oct. 17, 1S63; mustered 
Jan. 25, 1864; promoted sergeant Jan. 25, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 
1865. 

James M. Wells. Enrolled Oct. 30, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; pro- 
moted sergeant Feb. 1, 1864; color-bearer, July, 1S64; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Charles H. Corey. Enrolled as private Dec. 30, 1S63; mustered Feb. 
18, 1864; promoted corporal April iS, 1S64; promoted sergeant July 
3, 1S64; acting sergeant-major Third Battalion, from July 15 to 
Aug. 22, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as CHAR] i s 
A. Corey. 

Charles Newson. Enrolled as private Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Jan. 2^, 
1864; promoted corporal July 3, 1S64; acting assistant ordnance ser- 
geant at Camp Parapet, La., Nov., 1S64; promoted sergeant May 1, 
1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Corporals. 

Amos G. Freeman. Enrolled as private Nov. 21, 1S63; mustered 1 

1S64 ; died in Regimental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 4, 1S64. 
John W. Cortrigiit. Enrolled Dec. 12, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, [864; 

originally served as private; died at Camp Parapet, La., Sept. 2. 
James N. Deforest. Enrolled Jan. 14, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25. 

color-bearer, July, 1S64 ; mustered out Oct. 2. 1 
Greenberry Honeycutt. Enrolled as private Dec. 21. 1863; mustered 

Jan. 25, 1804; promoted corporal; died in Corps d'Afriquc General 

Hospital, New Orleans, La., July 24, 1S64. 

>7 



258 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Charles H. Moor. Enrolled as private Dec. 30, 1863; mustered Feb. 

18, 1S64; promoted corporal ; died at Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 12, 1864. 
Nelson Cross. Enrolled as private Dec. 19, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 

1864; promoted corporal Jan. 25, 1864; color-bearer, July, 1864; 

mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Davis Jackson. Enrolled as private Jan. 19, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 

1864 ; promoted corporal same date; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Joseph R. Parker. Enrolled as private Dec. 19, 1863; mustered Jan. 

25, 1864; promoted corporal same date ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
William Russell. Enrolled as private Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 

1864; promoted corporal Feb. 17, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Henry B. Williams. Enrolled as private Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Jan. 

25, 1864; promoted corporal Feb. 17, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
Wiley R. Jackson. Enrolled as private Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Jan. 

25, 1864; promoted corporal P'eb. 17, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
William H. Clark. Enrolled as private Jan. 6, 186-) ; mustered Jan. 25, 

1S64; promoted corporal Oct. 13, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
John Diggs. Enrolled as private Jan. 7, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 

promoted corporal Oct. 13. 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 
George Green. Enrolled as private Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 

1S64; promoted corporal May 1, 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 
Hillery R. Burns. Enrolled as private Dec. 21, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 

1864; promoted corporal May 1, 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Musicians. 

Sidney W.Johnson. Enrolled Jan. 6, 1S64; mustered Feb. 5, 1S64; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., June 8, 1865. 

Privates. 

Adams, James. Enrolled Dec. 26, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Allen, Henry. Enrolled Jan. 30, 1S64; mustered Feb. 2, 1864; died in 
Regimental Hospital, Camp Parapet, La., Aug. 19, 1864. 

Ambrose, Harrison. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Bailey, Andrew. Enrolled Dec. 15, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; de- 
tailed as post baker at Camp Parapet, La., June 25, 1S64; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Barrett, Henry. Enrolled Dec. 28, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., Dec. 28, 1864. 

Batties, Alfred R. F. Enrolled Nov. 28, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
deserted at Camp Parapet, La., June 4, 1S64. 

Bradford, Alonzo. Enrolled Jan. 19, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64 ; 
in quartermaster's department Aug., 1864, and so borne until Nov., 
1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Brown, George W. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., Jan. 16, 1S65. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 259 

Brown, Jesse W. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; mus- 
tered out at New York City, Nov. 3, 1865. 

Brown, Joseph B. Enrolled Dec. 26, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, [864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Brown, Nathan. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64: mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Bulah, Joseph P. Enrolled Dec. 21, 18635 mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Burley, Fletcher W. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Bevley. 

Butler, Amos. Enrolled Nov. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; hos- 
pital assistant Feb., 1S64, and so borne until Jan., 1865; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Carlisle, Calvin. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Cartwright, George \V. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25. 
1864; in Corps d'Afrique Hospital, New Orleans, La., from Julv 22. 
1864, until Aug., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Casey, George E. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 15, 1S64; 
sick in Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove. R. I., i 
and so borne until March 9, 1S64, when he was discharged. 

Casey, Reuben D. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64 ; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Casey, William M. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Clark, Ambrose. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
mustered out Oct- 2, 1S65. 

Clay, William. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, [864; borne 
as absent sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, 
La., from Julv 22, 1864, until Sept. 3, 1S64, when he died. 

Cleggett, William T. Enrolled Jan. 13,1864; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., Nov. 10, 1S64. 

Clifford, John. Enrolled Jan. 19, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, [864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Cone, William A. Enrolled Jan. 6, 1S64: mustered Jan 25. 1864 ; hos- 
pital attendant June, 1864; again in Aug., 1S64, and so home until 
Jan., 1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Congdon, James. Enrolled Sept. 20, 1S63; mustered Ji\\\- 25. [864; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., Nov. 22, 1864. 

Cortright, Prime. Enrolled Jan. 6, [864; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
wagoner, Feb., 1S64, and so borne until June, 1S64; discharged on 
surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., Feb. 10, i 

Cowan, James M. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Cummings, Thomas C Enrolled Jan. 6, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
wagoner, June, 1S64, and so borne until Aug., 1864; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 



260 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Davis, Augustus R. G. Enrolled Jan. 19, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 
1S64; teamster, Aug., 1864, and so borne until Oct., 1864; assistant 
in quartermaster's department Oct., 1S64, and so borne until Jan., 
1S65; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Dickerson, Joseph. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Dixon, Hezekiah, Jr. Enrolled Dec. 3, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
killed at Camp Parapet, La., while assaulting officer of the guard, 
April 30, 1S64. 

Dorset, Elijah. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Dorsey, John H. Enrolled Jan. 6, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; died 
in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, La., July 7, 1S64. 

Duffin, Charles J. Enrolled Jan. 6, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. Also borne as Daffin. 

Dunbar, Ambrose. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Elebeck, Henry N. Enrolled Dec. 18, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Ellet, Henry. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Ellis, George W. Enrolled Jan. 1, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; borne 
as absent sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, 
La., from July 22, 1S64, until Oct., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Fairfax, Thomas C. Enrolled Jan. 19, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 14, 1864. 

Fletcher, Weston. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
in commissary department Jan., 1864, and so borne during a greater 
part of service; died at Camp Parapet, La., June 18, 1S65. 

Freeman, Elum C. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 25, 1S64; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. Also borne as Elam. 

Garnett, Andrew. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1863; mustered Feb. 5, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Gibbs, Miles. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., June 8, 1865. 

Go, Levi. Enrolled Jan. 1, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1865. 

Grayson, Joseph. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
hospital assistant March, 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Greer, Richard. Enrolled Dec. 28, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., June 17, 1S64. 

Gregor, Samuel D. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Griffin, Charles A. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 16, 1S64. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 26l 

Griffin, Henry A. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 15, , 

died at Camp Parapet, La., Dec. 31, 1864. 
Hall, Nathaniel. Enrolled Jan. 1, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1- 

at Camp Parapet, La., Sept. 4, 1S64. 
Hammet, Stephen F. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, ■ 
borne as absent sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, NV 
leans, La., from July 22, 1864, until Oct., 1S64; deserted at Camp 
Parapet, La., Dec. 7, 1864. 

Hardiman, Alexander. Enrolled Dec. 5, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, : 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Harmon, James. Enrolled Jan. 7, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, [864; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet. I. a.. Ma\ 1:. 

Henderson, Henry. Enrolled Dec. 17, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Henry, James F. Enrolled Dec. 8, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; borne 
as absent sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, 
La., from July 22, 1864, until Aug. 7, 1S64, when he died. 

Herbert, Theodore. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, I 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Herrell, Richard. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1 
discharged on surgeon'6 certificate at Camp Parapet, La., M,t\ c . 

Hill, Henry C. Enrolled Dec. iS, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., Sept. 21, 1S64. 

Hopkins, Thomas C. Enrolled Jan. 12, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., June 8, 
1S65. Also borne as Thomas Hopkins. 

Hornbeck, Theodore. Enrolled Dec. 2S, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., Sept. 30, 1864. 

Hovey, Joseph. Enrolled Dec. 31, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Howard, James. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Howell, Edmund. Enrolled Dec. 18, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
wagoner, Aug., 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Howland, George. Enrolled Dec. 30, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
died at Camp Parapet, La., Nov. 7, 1S64. 

Itchison, William. Enrolled Jan. 12, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25. [864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jackson, Silas. Enrolled Dec. 22, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Johns, Evans. Enrolled Nov. 30, 1S63: mustered Jan. 25, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Johns, George. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, iN''>4; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Johnson, George A. Enrolled Jan. 6, 1864; mustered Jan. 25. r 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 



262 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Johnson, George H. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 18, 1864: wagoner 
Sept., 18, 1864, and so borne until Jan., 1865 ; deserted at Camp Para- 
pet, La., Sept. 6, 1865. 

Johnson, Thomas H. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, William. Enrolled Jan. 6, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Johnson, William H. Enrolled Jan. 27, 1S64; mustered Feb. 2, 1S64; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Jones, Benjamin. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; sick 
in Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I., Feb., 1S64, and 
so borne until April 11,1864, when he was discharged on surgeon's 
certificate. 

Jones, David. Enrolled Dec. 30, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., June 8, 1865. 

Jones, James F. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; borne 
as hospital attendant during greater part of service; died at Camp 
Parapet, La., Nov. 30, 1864. 

Jones, Robert. Enrolled Dec. 18, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jones, William A. Enrolled Nov. 16, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Jones, William H. Enrolled Dec. 22, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Kenney, William. Enrolled Dec. 21, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
in commissary department Aug., 1S64; in quartermaster's depart- 
ment Sept., 1S64; died at Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 25. 1S64. 

Lacey, Charles. Enrolled Jan. 1, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Lee, Henry. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; died at 
Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 2, 1S64. 

Lee, William A. Enrolled Jan. 19, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Lemon, John H. Enrolled Dec. 26, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; borne 
on detached service at Post Headquarters June, 1864; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Lucas, James. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Lucas, Philip. Enrolled Jan. 19, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; borne 
as at Hospital headquarters July, 1864; in quartermaster's department 
Aug., 1S64, and so borne until Jan., 1S65 ; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Mark, William. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
mustered out at New York City, Oct. 17, 1865. 

McGowan, Samuel. Enrolled Dec. 22, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
on detached service at Post headquarters June, 1S64; mustered out 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 

Miller, James. Enrolled Nov. 30, 1S63; mustered Jan. 85, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. v 

Moore, George. Enrolled Jan. 13, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, iSr,^ ; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., Sept. 24, 1864. 

Morrison, William A. Enrolled Dec. 29. 1863; mustered Jan. 2: 
died at Camp Parapet, La., July 15, 1S64. 

Murray, William. Enrolled Nov. 14, 1S63; mustered Jan. 2:. 

ordered to report to chief mustering officer of state for discharge 
Jan. 6, 1866. No further record. 

Myers, Aaron C. Enrolled Dec. 30, 1S63; mustered Jan. 2c 
hospital assistant Feb. and March, 1S64; hospital attendant 
Dec, 1S64; died at Camp Parapet, La., Dec. 31, 1S64. 

Paine, Arthur. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864 : 
Camp Parapet, La., June 26, 1S64. 

Palmer, William. Enrolled Jan. 23, 1S64; mustered [an. 2;. 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Parker, James. Enrolled Jan. 7, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25. [864; sick in 
Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. 1.. i 
so borne until June, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Peck, William II. Enrolled as private Jan. 6, 1S64; mustered Jan. 2:. 
1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Peters, Abraham. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1S63; mustered Jan. 2;. 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Pool, Fielding. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., July 30, 1S64. 

Pugsley, Alexander. Enrolled Dec 21, 1S63; mustered Jan. 2>, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Randall, George H. Enrolled Jan. 6, 1S64; mustered Jan. 2;. 

borne as absent sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Or- 
leans, La., from July 22, 1S64, until Sept.. 1864; mustered ou' 
2. 1S65. 

Rice, Daniel. Enrolled Jan. 1, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; deserted at 
Camp Parapet, La., June 2, 1S65. 

Roberson, John L. Enrolled Jan. 1, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Roots, James. Enrolled Jan. 1, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; borne as 
absent sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, La., 
from July 22, 1S64, until Dec, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Scanks, Martin. Enrolled Dec. 22, 1S63; mustered Jan. 2;. 

borne as absent sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Or- 
leans, La., from July 6, 1S64, until Oct., 1S64; discharged on Mir 
geon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., Feb. 9, 1S65. 

Smith, Anthony. Enrolled Jan. 12, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Smith, George M. Enrolled Dec. 11, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
borne as absent sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital. New Or- 



264 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

leans, La., from July 22, 1864, until Sept., 1864; mustered out Oct. 
2, 1865. 

Smith, James. Enrolled Jan. 13, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; absent 
sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, La., from 
July 22, 1S64, until Dec. 26, 1S64, when discharged on surgeon's cer- 
tificate. 

Smith, James B. Enrolled Nov. 4, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1S65. , 

Smith, Robert. Enrolled Dec. 28, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; dis- 
charged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., Feb. 9, 1S65. 

Smith, William H. Enrolled Jan. 1, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
bugler, June, 1S64; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Terrell, Robert. Enrolled Jan. 1, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., Oct. 17, 1864. 

Valentine, William. Enrolled Jan. 19, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
discharged on surgeon's certificate at Camp Parapet, La., June 8, 1865. 

Wade, Horace G. Enrolled Jan. 19, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Washington, George. Enrolled Jan. 1, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
attendant in hospital Aug., 1S64, and so borne until Jan., 1865; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Watkins, Stephen L. Enrolled Jan. 21, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64 ; 
died at sea, April 12, 1S64. 

Wentworth, George C. Enrolled Jan. 7, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 
1S64; borne as absent sick in Corps d'Afrique General Hospital, 
New Orleans, La., from July 22, 1864, until Sept. 21, 1864, when he 
was discharged on surgeon's certificate. 

West, Charles. Enrolled Dec. 19, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
sick in Lovell General Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I., April, 
1S64, and so borne until June, 1864; borne as absent sick in Corps 
d'Afrique General Hospital, New Orleans, La., from July 22, 1864, 
until Oct., 1864; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

White, Gazeway. Enrolled Jan. 6, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 1S64; mus- 
tered Oct. 2, 1865. 

Whitfield, Joseph H. Enrolled Dec. 15, 1863; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
died in Regimental Hospital, Dutch Island, R. I., Feb. 29, 1S64. 

Williams, Wilson. Enrolled Nov. 18, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Wilson, Harvey. Enrolled Jan. 1, 1864; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; mus- 
tered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Wilson, William. Enrolled Dec. 23, 1S63; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; 
deserted from regimental guard house June ji, 1S64; re-taken June 
17, 1S64; deserted June 2S, 1864. 

Wime, John. Enrolled Jan. 7, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25, 1864; mustered 
out Oct. 2, 1865. 




LIEUT. DANIEL J. VIALL 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED) 

Woods, Ananias. Enrolled Nov. 28, 1S63; mustered Jan. 

deserted June II, 1S64; arrested June 22, 1S64, and borne as in 
confinement until released by special order dated Feb. 5, isr/,, and 
ordered to report to cbief mustering officer ol" state for ditch 
No later record. 

YOUTKR, JAMBS R. Enrolled Jan. 19, 1S64; mustered Jan. 25. 1S64 ; died 
at Camp Parapet, La., Jan. 25, 1865. 



UNASSIGNED RECRUITS. 

Bell, Henry. Enrolled and mustered March 2S, 1S65; mustered out 

May 10, 1S65. 
Bright, Charles. Enrolled Feb. 13, 1865. No further record. Name 

not borne on rolls of the War Deptartment, Washington, D. C. 
Buck, John. Enrolled and mustered March 22, 1S05; mustered out Ma \ 

10, 1S65. 
Burns, John. Enrolled and mustered March 23, 1S65; mustered out 

May 10, 1865. 
Chapman, Daniel. Enrolled and mustered April 6, 1S65; mustered out 

May 10, 1S65. 
Cherry, William. Enrolled and mustered April 13, 1S65; mustered 

out by order dated April 29, 1S65. 
Copper, Henry. Enrolled and mustered March 2S, 1S65; mustered out 

May 10, 1S65. 
Easton, David M. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 22, 1S65 ; mustered out 

May 10, 1865. 
Fergerson, Enoch. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 16, 1865; deserted 

Feb. 20, 1S65. 
Fletcher, John B. Enrolled and mustered March 21, 1S65; mustered 

out May 10, 1S65. 
Freeman, Thomas. Enrolled and mustered March 8, 1865; mustered 

out May 10, 1S65. 
Gardner, Charles F. Enrolled and mustered April 13, 1865; mustered 

out May 10, 1S65. 
Gardner, Edward. Enrolled Feb. 27, 1S65. No further record found 

on the rolls of the War Department, Washington, D. C 
Gardner, Henry F. Enrolled and mustered Jan. 19, 1S65; died at Key 

West, Fla., Feb. 23, 1S65. 
Glover, William. Enrolled and mustered April [3, 1865; mustered 

out May 10, 1S65. 
Grimes, David. Mustered March 12, 1S64 ; information from War 

Dept., Washington, D. C, states: "Name has not been found on the 

rolls of Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, subsequently 

Eleventh United States Heavy Artillery." No further record. 



266 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND. 

Hazzard, Eli. Enrolled and mustered April 4, 1S65; mustered out May 

10, 1865. 
Hazard, Perry S. Enrolled and mustered April 13, 1S65; mustered out 

May 10, 1865. 
Hernandes, Charles. Discharged from New Haven, Conn., March 

21, 1S65. No other record found. Name not borne on the rolls of 

the War Department, Washington, D. C. 
Martin, Charles. Information from War Department, Washington, 

D. C, states : " Name has not been found on rolls of the Fourteenth 

Rhode Island Heavy Artillery.'* 
Moranders, John O. Enrolled and mustered March 2, 1S65; mustered 

out May 10, 1S65. 
Mullen, William. Enrolled and mustered April 6, 1S65; mustered out 

May 10, 1S65. 
Niles, Charles W. Enrolled and mustered April 10, 1865; mustered 

out May 10, 1S65. 
Perry, William. Enrolled and mustered April 6, 1S65; mustered out 

May 10, 1S65. 
Phillips, Joseph. Enrolled and mustered Sept. 27, 1864; mustered out 

May 10, 1S65. 
Potter, Isaac E. Enrolled and mustered April S, 1S65 ; mustered out 

May 10, 1S65. 
Ray, Joseph F. Enrolled Feb. 13, 1S65. No further record. Name not 

borne on the rolls of the War Department, Washington, D. C. 
Rhodes, Andrew. Enrolled and mustered April 13, 1865; mustered out 

May 10, 1865. 
Roeerts, Lewis W. Enrolled Feb. 22, 1S64, at Machias, Me.; mustered 

Feb. 26, 1S64; mustered out as of Co. B, Forty-third United States 

Colored Infantry, to which transferred Oct. 20, 1S65. 
Scott, Winfield. Enrolled and mustered July 21, 1864; deserted at 

New Haven, Conn., Aug. 20, 1S64. 
Spellman, Samuel. Enrolled and mustered March 28, 1865 ; mustered 

out May 10, 1S65. 
Thomas, Frederick D. Enrolled and mustered April 13, 1S65; mustered 

out May 10, 1S65. 
Valentine, James D. Discharged for disability Dec. 16, 1S64. No 

other record. Name not borne on the rolls of the War Department, 

Washington, D. C. 
Wright, Daniel G. Enrolled and mustered Feb. 8, 1S65; mustered out 

May 10, 1S65. 
Yarney, John. Enrolled and mustered March 14, 1864; mustered out 

May 10, 1865. 



PERSONAL SKETCHES 



[We have inserted sketches of the officers of the regiment as far m they can be ol 

J. HALE SYPHER. 

General J. Hale Sypher was born July 22, 1S37, on his father's farm in 
Perrv County, Pennsylvania. He comes of Teutonic stock, and his 

tors emigrated to this country during the early part of the seventeenth cen- 
tury from the valley of the Rhine, and settled on the Delaware River near 
the present site of Chester, Pennsylvania. His grand tat her, Abraham 
Sypher, and five brothers (grand uncles) bore arms in the Conti: 
Army in vindication of the principles of the Declaration of independence, 
and participated in the battles of Trenton, Princeton. Brandywine, German- 
town, and Monmouth, and were at Valley Forge with General Wash! 

General Sypher is a member of the Society of Sons of the Revolution. 
He received a liberal education and was graduated from Alfred University 
in 1S59, and adopted the profession of the law. He responded to the first 
call for troops in defense of the Union, and has the honorable distinction 
of winning his way from the ranks to the command of a regiment. He 
enlisted for three months as a private in the Cleveland, Ohio, Light 
lerv, on the twenty-first day of April, 1S61, and served in the Army of We6l 
Virginia under McClellan and Rosecrans. He participated in the first battle 
of the war on June 3, 1S61, at Philippi. On the expiration of his three 
months' term of enlistment he engaged in recruiting and organizing B 
"B," First Regiment Ohio Light Artillery, and on the Sth day of October. 
1861, he was mustered into the service with his battery as firsl lieutenant, 
and served in the Army of the Cumberland, participating in its campaigns 
and battles until February, 1864. He received honorable mention in otficial 
orders and reports by the commanding general for gallant conduct in battle 
as follows: "I deem it a duty to refer in complimentary terms to the 
marked efficiency of Lieutenant Sypher.'' And again: "Lieutenant 
Svpher deserves especial notice." (History War of the Rebellion, Vol. a\ 
Part /, pp. S94, S95, 905, 921.) The principal battles in which General 
Svpher was engaged were Philippi, Beverly, Rich Mountain, Carries 
Wildcat Ridge, Millsprings, Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Perryville, 
River, Rogersville, Swedens Cove, Nashville, Chattanooga, and Chicka- 
mauga. 

On the 20th of November, 1S63, General Svpher was commissi 
and mustered as captain of his battery, which promotion he had earned by 



268 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

long and faithful service, but notwithstanding his brilliant record in the 
field, through political influence the Governor of Ohio was induced to re- 
voke his commission, and ordered him mustered out as captain, and pro- 
moted a junior officer over him. General Svpher resented this outrage 
promptly, by presenting his resignation, using the following language: 
"As I have always conducted myself as becomes an officer and soldier, 
giving no just cause for this humiliation and disgrace, I ask to be relieved 
from my present position at once." Maj.-Gen. George H. Thomas (" Old 
Pap,'' as he was affectionately called by his troops), knowing this young 
officer personally, and his high character as a soldier, issued the following 
order, giving the cause of the resignation : 

Headquarters Department of the Cumberland, 

Chattanooga, Term., Feby. 3. 1864. 
Special Field Order, No. 34. 

The resignation of the following named officer is accepted to take effect from this date : 
First Lieutenant J. Hale Sypher, Company " B " First Ohio Light Artillery. 
Cause — Dissatisfaction produced by the promotion of a junior officer over him. 
By command of Major-General Thomas. 

WM. D. WHIPPLE, A. A. G. 

Imbued with the same patriotic spirit which induced him to enlist as a 
private at the first call for troops in the beginning of the war, he went at 
once to Washington and tendered his services to the government. He was 
ordered before a board of regular army officers of which Maj.-Gen. Silas 
Casey was president, for examination as to his qualifications. After a 
most rigid examination he passed with the highest merit, and was recom- 
mended as colonel of the first class. 

On July 9, 1S64, he was commissioned and assigned to the command of 
the Eleventh Regiment United States Heavy Artillery (originally desig- 
nated the Fourteenth Rhode Island), stationed in the Department of the 
Gulf. He assumed command of this regiment on the tenth day of August, 
1S64, and served until Oct. 2, 1865, when it was mustered out and dis- 
charged at Portsmouth Grove, Rhode Island. He commanded the United 
States forces at the military posts of Plaquemine and Donaldsonville, 
Louisiana, on the Mississippi River, and the Reserve Artillery of the de- 
partment, and served on special duty as president of general court- 
martial. 

As indicative of his intelligence, ability and efficiency as an officer, it 
may be mentioned that he was selected and designated by the commanding 
general of the department, as president of a board of examination for offi- 
cers in the department, to determine the qualifications and fitness of appli- 
cants for appointment and promotion, as well as the efficiency of officers 
already in the service who might be reported for examination. 

At the close of the war his regiment returned to the State for final dis- 
charge, and upon invitation was reviewed by the governor and his staff, 
in the presence of the citizens of Providence. Impressed with the high 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 

state of discipline and fine soldierly hearing of the officer! and men, who 
reflected the highest honor upon the State, under whose auspices il. 
ment was organized and sent into the field, Gov. James Y. Smitl 

communication addressed to the Secretary of War, says: "Colonel S 
passed General Casey's examining hoard and was one of the few 
recommended for appointment as colonels. He has served in all the 
grades during the late war, and his Integrity, energy and unflinching 
patriotism, with his complete knowledge of tactics and army regula 
has gained for him the high position he now holds. He now ; 
leave the service which no longer requires him. his regiment now being 
here awaiting discharge, and I should number it among the greatest I 
that you have conferred upon me, if you would give Colonel Svpher a 
brevet commission as brigadier-general." Agreeably to this request the 
President commissioned Colonel Svpher to date from March 13. 1 
brevet brigadier-general, United States Volunteers, for "faithful and 
torious service during the war." 

Having retired from the military service at the close of the war, General 
Svpher determined to make his permanent residence in the State of Lou- 
isiana, where he located and engaged in the culture of cotton and sugar. 

Earnest and efficient in assisting to maintain the union of the S 
and the integrity of the nation, he also considered it his duty to take an 
active part in establishing and maintaining civil government in his State, 
and organizing her industries and building up her waste places. He was 
one of the ablest and foremost advocates of the ratification and adoption 
of the new State Constitution in Louisiana, under the reconstruction acts 
of Congress. 

The people, duly appreciating General Sypher' s abilities and services as 
a political leader, resolved to make him one of their representatives at the 
National Capitol. Although not desiring or seeking political preferment 
he reluctantly accepted the nomination of his party and was four times 
elected as a representative in Congress from the First Congressional Dis- 
trict, and served in the Fortieth, Forty-first, Forty-second and Forty-third 
Congress. He enjoys the distinction of being the only man of his party 
who has ever occupied a seat in Congress from that Congressional district. 
In Congress he was bold and fearless in advocating adequate protection to 
labor and home industries, and a liberal policy of internal improvements, 
and generous justice and amnesty to the South. 

General Sypher was the author and foremost advocate of the movement 
in Congress to secure legislation for the improvement of the navigation 
of the Mississippi River. He introduced the first measure in Conu': 
authorize and commence that great work, which finally resulted in secur- 
ing a practicable channel with deep water at the mouth of that great river. 

At the close of his Congressional career General Sypher retired from 
public life and devoted his attention to his planting interests and the prac- 
tice of his profession. 



270 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

NELSON VIALL. 

General Nelson Viall was born in Plainfleld, Conn., Nov. 27, 1S27. 
He is a lineal descendant of John Viall, who settled in Boston as early 
as 1630, and afterwards owned tracts of land in Rehoboth, Mass. His 
mother was a daughter of Col. Albert Shorey, who commanded a regi- 
ment of Massachusetts militia in the War of 1812. In early life General 
Viall was obliged to depend entirely upon his own resources for support; 
but in common with other youth of our land this only developed in him 
strength to battle with the world, and a resolute determination to succeed 
in whatever he undertook, which became valuable characteristics later in 
life, on the field of battle and in the hour of danger. 

In 1S46 he was employed as a moulder in Providence. From 1850 to 
1854 he was engaged in the construction of an iron foundry in Brazil. 
He subsequently returned to Providence and remained here until the 
breaking out of the War of the Rebellion. 

General Viall early evinced a taste for military affairs, and, while resid- 
ing in Providence, he in 1S46 connected himself with the United Train of 
Artillery and served in the positions of adjutant and lieutenant-colonel in 
that organization. In the War with Mexico he enlisted first as private then 
promoted successively as corporal and sergeant in Co. A, Ninth Infantry, 
United States Volunteers, in February, 1S47. This company was com- 
manded by Capt. Joseph S. Pitman, afterwards lieutenant-colonel of the 
FirstRhode Island Detached Militia, in the War of the Rebellion. General 
Viall participated in the battles of Contreras, Cherubusco, and Chepultepec. 
At the storming of the latter place he received a severe injury in his foot 
while ascending one of the storming ladders, from which injury he has 
never entirely recovered, although at that time it did not prevent his 
taking an active part in the operations which finally resulted in the cap- 
ture of the Mexican capital. Soon after the close of the war he returned 
to Rhode Island and resumed his occupation as a moulder. 

At the commencement of the War for the Union he was lieutenant- 
colonel of the United Train of Artillery, and, with the permission of the 
colonel commanding (Nicholas Van Slyck), he at once opened the 
armory for recruits. A company was soon raised, and Colonel Van 
Slvck was commissioned captain, and General Viall first lieutenant. The 
company was designated as Co. B, First Rhode Island Detached Militia, 
and was enrolled April 17, 1861, and mustered June 6, 1S61. Upon the 
formation of the Second Rhode Island Infantry for three years or the 
war, he resigned his commission in the First, and was appointed captain 
of Co. C, of the Second Rhode Island, June 1, 1S61. 

At the Battle of Bull Run, July 21, 1861, the Second Rhode Island .bore 
an honorable part, losing its colonel and major. On the fall of these 
two brave officers General Viall being the senior captain of the regiment, 
immediately assumed the duties of a field officer. These duties he per- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 



271 



formed with so much bravery that he received a commission ai 

bearing date from the day of the battle. 

He participated with his regiment in the Peninsular campaign, and. 
while stationed at Mechanicsville, Va., he was promoted to lieutenant- 
colonel June 12, 1S62. On the 25th of June the regiment engaged the 
enemy at Seven Pines, when General Yiall received a Besfa wound in the 
hip. During the retreat of the Union Army General Viall was ordered 
to report to General Couch at division headquarters, and directed to act 
in the place of General Abercrombie, on the picket line, who was iii 
The plan of falling back was entrusted to him, and the detail of different 
brigades of division doing picket duty at the front was furnished him, 
with instructions to hold the line as long as possible. This duty he 
successfully performed, and the time thus gained enabled the troops in 
the rear to retire in good order. On reaching Harrison's Landii. 
eral Viall was ordered to assume command of the Tenth Massachusetts 
Infantry, whose colonel had been wounded. He remained in command 
of this regiment until it arrived at Yorktown, fulfilling the duties incum- 
bent upon him to the satisfaction of all connected with him. His subor- 
dinate officers were so well pleased with the ability he displayed while in 
command of the regiment that they forwarded a request to Governor 
Andrew that General Viall might be appointed to the place of their old 
colonel, who in the meantime had been advanced to the rank of a briga- 
dier. Had General Viall deemed it expedient to accept this position i: 
would probably have been granted, but he had been assured by those 
high in authority that he would soon have the command of a B 
Island regiment, so he declined the offer, and returned to the S 
Rhode Island. 

General Viall was in command of the Second Rhode Island at the bat- 
tle of Fredericksburg, Dec. 10, 1S62. For gallantry in this action Gen- 
eral Viall received acommission as colonel of the Second, Dec. 13. 1862, 
Colonel Frank Wheaton having in the meantime been advanced to the 
rank of brigadier-general of volunteers. In consequence of the dissatis- 
faction and trouble arising from the appointment of the chaplain to the 
rank of major, General Viall resigned his commission, which took 
Jan. 25, 1S63. He then returned to Rhode Island. 

Soon after his return General Viall was elected colonel of the Fourth 
Regiment Rhode Island Militia. Subsequently he was authorized by tin- 
governor to begin the formation of the Thirteenth Regiment of i 
Island Volunteers for six months' service in the field; the command ot 
which was offered to him. While thus engaged the draft took place, 
accompanied by the riots in New York and Boston. During ibis 
of anxiety the governor placed the charge of the State property under his 
control. The Thirteenth Regiment performed guard duty in the city 
with the militia. In the meantime orders were received from Washing- 
ton to discharge all six months' men and recruit for three years only 
The Thirteenth Regiment was therefore disbanded. 



272 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

When the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery was organized, 
in September, 1863, General Viall was assigned the duty of preparing it 
for the field, and was appointed major of the First Battalion Sept. 9, 1863. 
General Viall devoted himself untiringly to his work, and in the course of 
a few months had the satisfaction of seeing the regiment raised to its full 
complement of men, three battalions strong. He was commissioned lieu- 
tenant-colonel Jan. 15, 1S64. 

General Viall accompanied the Third Battalion to New Orleans, La. 
Previous to its departure for the South he was made the recipient of an 
elegant sabre and equipments, a gift from the officers of the Fourth Rhode 
Island Detached Militia, which he had recently commanded. 

On the arrival of the Third Battalion at Camp Parapet, General Viall 
was placed in immediate command of the District and Post. It was an 
important command, as the District of Carrollton covered the city of New 
Orleans against attack from the north, and included, as has been pievi- 
ously stated, the rendezvous at Greenville for troops arriving in the De- 
partment of the Gulf, and embraced an extensive and comparatively high 
and dry area between the river and the New Orleans and Carrollton Rail- 
road, and afforded at this point the most commodious and accessible facil- 
ities for troops recuperating and reorganizing. In July, 1864, his com- 
mand included Fort Banks on the opposite side of the river, and the terri- 
tory thus occupied extended as far north as Donaldsonville. General 
Viall's services were often required on general court-martial in New 
Orleans, and for the most part in the capacity of president. He was also 
on a board of examination for officers of colored troops, from March 20 
to April 12, 1865. 

The following extract, taken from Bartletfs Memoirs of Rhode Island 
Officers, will give sufficient indication of the esteem in which General 
Viall is held in Rhode Island : 

" With the mustering out of this regiment General Viall ended his mil- 
itary service in the great Rebellion. Up to this time he had not received 
a colonel's commission from the United States as colonel, although he 
had held a State commission of that grade. Soon after the close of the 
war he received a colonel's commission from Washington, together with 
the promotion to the rank of brigadier-general by brevet. The promo- 
tion was well deserved, for few officers had rendered the State or govern- 
ment more laborious service than General Viall. His personal bravery 
in battle was never doubted. The troops under his command were 
always in a state of high discipline, and, by long and faithful services, he 
proved himself among the worthiest of Rhode Island's sons who repre- 
sented the national honor during the fierce contest of the great Rebel- 
lion." General Viall's commission as brevet brigadier-general of volun- 
teers is dated May 25, 1S66, " for faithful service during the war." 

He was Representative to the General Assembly from the city of Provi- 
dence in 1866. He was chief of police of Providence from June, 1866, to 




LIEUT. HERBERT I). LEAVITT 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 2JT, 

June, 1867. He has been warden of the Rhode Island State Prison for 
many .years, and still occupies that position. 

He joined Prescott Post, No. 1, Grand Army of the Republic, April 
12, 1867, as one of the charter members at its organization, and was its 
first senior vice commander. He was chairman fro tern of the first 
council of administration which was organized in the Department of 
Rhode Island. In 1896 he was elected an aid-de-camp on the st;itr of 
the commander-in-chief. 

When the Second Rhode Island Veteran Association was formed he 
was chosen its first president, and held that office for two years. He ll ft1 
the present time president of the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artil- 
lery Veteran Association. 

In 1S61, while stationed in the City of Washington on military duty, 
he became a member of Federal Lodge, A. F. and A. M. He subse- 
quently united with St. John's Lodge of Providence, R. I., of which lodge 
he is still a member. 



JOSEPH J. COMSTOCK. 

Major Joseph J. Comstock was born in Providence, R. I., Jan. 10, 183& 
His ancestors on both sides were noted seafaring men. Some of them 
were captured during the Revolutionary War, and confined on the noto- 
rious prison ships of that period. 

Major Comstock in his youth attended boarding schools in Massachu- 
setts and New Jersey. He spent two years at school in Paris, France. 
Returning to New York in 1856, he was employed as clerk in a large 
wholesale dry goods and importing house. He was thus engaged at the 
breaking out of the Rebellion, and, imbued with the patriotic spirit of the 
times, promptly enlisted as a private in the famous Seventh New York 
Regiment, Aug. 19, 1861, and was mustered out at the expiration of hit 
term of service. He again entered the service, and was commissioned a 
fir6t lieutenant in the Third Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Aug. 15, 1861, 
and was appointed adjutant of the regiment. He was relieved from duty 
as adjutant and reported for duty in Company C, Jan. II, 1862. March 
II, 1862, he was commissioned captain and assigned to Company M. 
He was borne on detached service at Fort Mcllenrv, Md., from July 24, 
1862, until August, 1S62; March, 1S63, on special duty as a member of 
a general court-martial. In the advance against Pocataligo, October, 
1862, Captain Comstock, with a command of forty-five men, served boat 
howitzers landed from the gunboats. In 1862, he was severely injured in 
the line of duty, and was at one time reported as killed. He suffers to-day 
from the effect of those injuries. Sept. 16, 1S63, he resigned to accept 
promotion to major in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. 
In the History of the Third Rhode Island 1 1 envy Artillery, honorable 
mention is made of Major Comstock upon his retirement from the Third, 
as follows : 



274 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

" Regretfully the regiment parted with Capt. J. J. Comstock. . . . 
His talents, culture, bravery, and devotion, won for him an enviable rank 
In the esteem of our regiment." 

He was assigned to the command of the First Battalion of the Four- 
teenth, and sailed with his battalion for New Orleans, Dec. 19, 1863, arriv- 
ing there December 30th. Without debarking, it proceeded to Pass 
Cavallo, Texas, where it arrived Jan. 8, 1864, an< ^ was ordered to garrison 
duty in Fort Esperanza, Texas. Here it was visited by Major-General 
Dana, commanding the Union forces in Texas, who expressed himself as 
highly gratified with its appearance. In a letter to Governor Smith, he 
says : "I took them entirely by surprise by going over in a small boat, 
but they were ready. The soldier-like conduct of the sentinels, on post, 
and of the main guard at the gate, challenged my admiration. The 
'Assembly ' was sounded, and in five minutes the whole battalion, four 
hundred strong, was in line, and I have never found a regiment, even on 
a Sunday morning inspection, in more perfect condition and soldierly 
bearing. The drill was also most creditable. Such discipline and order 
reflect great credit upon the company officers, and especially on the major 
in command." 

On the 19th of May, 1864, Major Comstock received orders to evacuate 
Fort Esperanza and return to New Orleans. He accordingly embarked 
his command on the transport steamer Clinton, and reached New Orleans 
May 23, 1864. The next day he reported to Lieutenant-Colonel Viall, at 
Fort Parapet, where the First and Third Battalions were consolidated. 
Colonel Viall commanded the post and Major Comstock assumed com- 
mand of the two battalions. On the 3d of July, 1S64, General Sherman 
ordered the First Battalion to Fort Jackson, below New Orleans, to do 
garrison duty. Major Comstock's command included Forts Jackson and 
St. Philip, on the Mississippi River. On the 2Sth of August, 1864, he 
was president of a general court-martial. In March, 1865, Major Comstock 
was transferred to the Third Battalion, stationed at Camp Parapet, and 
continued in that capacity until May 22, 1S65. On the 25th of July, 1865, 
he was discharged on surgeon's certificate on account of honorable wounds 
received in the service. 

In November, 1865, Major Comstock proceeded by steamer to the East 
Indies, where he engaged in business. He subsequently visited China, 
Japan, and Manila. He afterwards returned to the United States and 
went into the manufacturing business in Providence, R. I. The panic of 
1873 proved disastrous to him financially, and he removed to New York and 
engaged in the publishing business, and is at the present time publishing 
a medical journal in that city. 

Major Comstock is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, 
Society of the War Veterans of the Seventh Regiment New York State 
National Guards, and the Third Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Veteran 
Association, having had the honor of being its first secretary. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLOR! I 27B 

RICHARD G. SHAW. 

Major Richard G. Shaw was born in Providence, R. I., Ji;- 
1832. His ancestors on his father's side came from Scotland. Hi- 
grandfather was a well known sea captain, and commanded 1 
ing with the East Indies. His great grandfather on his mother*! side waa 
a Revolutionary soldier. Major Shaw inherited the martial spirit from his 
father, Gen. James Shaw, St., wlio was for a long period connected with 
the First Light Infantry Company, of Providence. He was elect 
tain in 1830, and was in command of the company when the riot occurred 
in Olney's Lane, in 1831, the result of a collision between some sailors 
and colored men. The riot was finally suppressed by the Infantry firing 
upon the mob. This is said to have been the first instance in the United 
States of the use of the militia to quell a riot. In 1S42, during 1 1 1 • - 
Dorr War, he commanded the Third Ward Guards, and in the fall of that 
year was elected brigadier-general of the Second Brigade of State Militia, 
a position which he filled for many years. 

Major Shaw was educated in the public schools of Providence. L'pon 
leaving school he entered a drug store, and afterwards the jewelry busi- 
ness, and was engaged in that business in partnership witli his brother, 
John P. Shaw, at the outbreak of the Rebellion. Being prostrated bv ill- 
ness he was unable to respond to the President's first call for troo; 
as soon as sufficiently recovered he offered his services to the governor, 
and was commissioned captain in Company D, Third Rhode Heavy 
Artillery, Aug 27, 1S61, and participated in Gen. Thomas W. Sherman's 
Port Royal Expedition in South Carolina, and was engaged in the opera- 
tions resulting in the capture of Morris Island, S. C. He commanded 
his battery in the assault and capture of the Confederate batteries on the 
lovverendof the island. Captain Shaw commanded the thirty-pounder 
siege battery at the siege of Fort Wagner, S. C, and commanded the 
same battery in the operations against Fort Gregg ami Cumminga Point, 
S. C. He was in command of Battery Haves (two hundred pounder 
guns) at the siege of Fort Sumter, S. C 

After the capture of Forts Wagner and Gregg by the Union fori 
was assigned to the command of the latter battery, which, in connection 
with other Union batteries, was continuously engaged with the Confeder- 
ate batteries in Charleston Harbor until the date of the capture of the city 
by Gen. William T. Sherman and his army. Major Shaw remained in 
command of Battery Gregg until Jan. 13, 1S64, when, having received an 
appointment as major in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. 
he was ordered to Washington before an examining board, of which 
Silas Casey was president. 

The following extracts from letters to General Casey will indicate the 
esteem in which Major Shaw was regarded by his superior officers 



276 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Folly Island, S. C, 

Nov. 10, 1863. 
I take pleasure in recommending to your consideration Capt. Richard G. Shaw, Third 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, who is now a candidate for promotion. Capt. Shaw has 
now been serving under me on Morris Island as commander of a battery of heavy guns 
since the 26th day of July last. He has been in command of a battery during all the artil- 
lery operations on Morris Island, and also took part in the operations on Folly Island, 
which opened the way to the descent upon Morris Island. During this time he has with 
his command been continually on duty at ihe front. I can earnestly recommend him 
for the position to which he has been commissioned. He has been a zealous commander, 
and the practical experience which he has acquired this summer will be of vast use to him 
in his new position, and of service to his country. 

(Signed,) JXO. H. TURNER, 

Brig-Gen. Chief of Arty. 

1 cordially endorse the within recommendation of Capt. Shaw, and trust the promotion 
which he seeks may be secured to him. 

(Signed,) q. A. GII.MORE, 



The following letter is also appended 



Maj. General Comd'g. 



Hd. Qjts., Morkis Island., S. C, 
Nov. 11, 1S63. 



Capt. R. G. Shaw, Third R. I. Vols. 

Capt. : I forward to you enclosed a special order from Department Hd. Qrs. granting 
you leave of absence that you may appear before the board for the examination of omcers 
for colored regiments. In parting with you I desire to express my appreciation of the 
very able and faithful manner in which you have discharged your duties as a battery 
commander during the operations against Sumter and Wagner. Your expected promo- 
tion has been well merited by exertions here, and while I shall regret to lose you from my 
command, I congratulate you on so promptly receiving the just reward of your services. 
(Signed,) Very truly yours, 

ALFRED S. TERRY, 

Brig. -Gen. Conni'g. 

Having successfully passed the board he reported to General Banks at 
New Orleans, and was ordered to take command of the Second Battalion 
Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, then stationed at English 
Turn, La. He assumed command March 7, 1864. The battalion soon 
after removed to Plaquemine, La., and Major Shaw was assigned to the 
command of the troops and post at that place until the arrival of the 
colonel of the regiment on the 10th of August, 1864. He was also in 
command of the post during the absence of Colonel Sypher, who was 
on detached service at Greenville, La. The position of post commander 
was one of great responsibility, and required the exercise of decision and 
discretion in the performance of his duties. It was one of the most im- 
portant posts that was occupied by the Federal forces in Louisiana, and 
many of the inhabitants in the town and vicinity professed loyalty to 
the Union, but were in full sympathy with the Confederate cause, and 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLOR] 2JJ 

availed themselves of every opportunity to give aid and comfort to the 
enemy. Major Shaw fulfilled the dutiei incumbent upon him with firm- 
ness and fidelity, and his administration of affairs was alike creditable to 

himself and his battalion. 11<- wa- in command of the poet when the 
Confederates attacked and surprised the pickets stationed on the road 
which winds its way in close proximity to Bayou Plaquemine. Three 
men of the Third Rhode Island Cavalry were posted as an advanced 
picket, while three others of the Second Battalion were stationed 
inner picket. The latter, after surrendering to the Confederates, were 
taken a few miles into the interior and cruelly murdered. 

After more than four years of continuous and faithful service in the 
volunteer forces of the L'nion, Major Shaw was mustered out with 1. 
iment Oct. 2, 1S65, and he returned with it to Rhode Island. His family 
were conspicuous for their loyalty and devotion to the l'nion. Two of 
the major's brothers served with distinction in the Rebellion : fames 
Shaw, Jr., entered the service as lieutenant-colonel of the Tenth Rhode 
Island Infantry, and was afterwards promoted to the colonelcy of tfl 
iment. He also served as lieutenant-colonel of the Twelfth Rhode Island 
Infantry. He was subsequently commissioned, by the President, colonel 
of the Seventh United States Colored Infantry. He was appointed brevet 
brigadier-general for gallant and meritorious service during the war. 
His brother, John P. Shaw, was commissioned captain in the Second 
Rhode Island Infantry. He was a brave and etlicient officer, and was 
killed at the battle of Spottsvlvania Court House, May 12, 1S64. Capt. 
A. Richmond Rawson, his brother-in-law, was one of the first to respond 
to the President's call for men. and. upon the expiration of his three 
months' service, was commissioned first lieutenant in the Third Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery, and afterwards promoted to captain in the Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. He died at his home in Provi- 
dence, May 5, 1S64, from disease contracted while serving with nil 
ment in South Carolina. 

Major Shaw entered the regular service as second lieutenant in the Firsl 
Artillery, May 4, 1S66, and was breveted captain in the United States 
Army March 2, 1S67, for gallant and meritorious conduct on Mortis 
Island, S. C Upon entering the regular service he was assigned to Bat- 
tery M, First Artillery, stationed at Fort Hamilton, New York Harbor, 
and commanded that battery for several months during the absence in 
Europe of its permanent commander, Capt. L. L. Langdon. Was pro- 
moted to first lieutenant July 2S, 1866; served at that station for six years 
in Batteries M and D, and was with the battalion when it was ordered 
with other troops to aid the United States marshal in breaking up illicit 
distilling in Brooklyn, and was also with his command when it was or- 
dered to the Canadian frontier to suppress the Fenian invasion. Com- 
manded his battery when it was ordered on detached service in New York 
City to protect United States Marshal Gen. Francis M. Barlow from 



278 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

threatened arrest for contempt of court in refusing to turn over to the 
State authorities a prisoner held by the United States civil authorities. 
Served at the Artillery School, Fort Monroe, Va., from May, 1872, to 
May, 1S73, and graduated in the class of that year. Joined a battalion of 
his regiment at Key West, Florida, June, 1873, and served as quartermas- 
ter of that post and of the battalion while it was in camp at Fort Dallas, 
Bay Biscayne, and Indian Key, Florida, and was in command of Batte- 
ries E and I for several months while in camp at Fort Dallas. 

The regiment was ordered north December, 1875, and he took station 
at Fort Warren, Boston Harbor, Mass., where he served as quartermaster 
of that post for two years. While at Fort Warren he was detached from 
his company for a two years' tour of duty with the light battery at Fort 
Adams. He was ordered to the Pacific coast in 1880. His battery (I) 
was sent to Fort Canby, at the mouth of the Columbia River. He 
was promoted to captain Sept. 20, 1SS3. He served there and at Fort 
Stevens, Oregon, until 1S83, when he was ordered with his battery to 
Alcatraz Island, San Francisco Harbor. After serving at that post 
for about two years he was ordered to Presidio, San Francisco. In 
August, 1887, at the request of the Indian agent at the Round Valley 
Reservation for troops to protect the Indians from the trespasses of the 
white settlers, he was ordered with his battery to that reservation. That 
his services there were appreciated by the department commander, Gen. 
Oliver O. Howard, is shown by the following letter dated Oct. 24, 1887 : 

Headqjuarters, Department of California, 
San Francisco, California, 

October 24, 1SS7. 
Captain R. G. Shaw, First Artillery, Commanding Camp Wright, Cal. 

Sir: Your communication of the 20th inst. has been received. Your action concern- 
ing an attempt of State authorities to hinder you from fulfilling' your instructions is 
approved. As to stock in corral, if suffered by the intruders or trespassers to remain in 
your possession long enough to suffer from want of food, have the same driven without 
the limits of the reservation, and kept there, if possible. If you are hindered by an arrest, 
please telegraph me and U. S. District Attorney of San Francisco at once. . . . Your 
judicious and faithful conduct in hindering trespassers from persisting in their shameful 
conduct gives the department commander great satisfaction. 

Very respectfully, your obd't servant, 

[Sgd,] G. V. CHASE, 

jst Lieut., Fourth Infantry. 

Aid-de-Camp. 

In May, 1S90, the regiment was ordered East. He took station with his 
battery at Fort Hamilton, New York Harbor, May 16, 1S90, where he 
served as commander of Battery I, First Artillery, until he was placed on 
the retired list June 29, 1S96. He subsequently removed to Providence, 
R. I., and was residing there until his death, which occurred suddenly of 
heart failure, April 30, 1898. He was at the time of his decease a member 
of the Providence Board of Trade. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLOR! 279 



BENON1 CARPENTER. 

Surgeon Bexoni Carpenter was born in Rehoboth, Mass., March 
12, 1805. lie attended the public schools of that town in his youth, and 
entered Brown University in the class of" 1839. In 1832 he graduated 
from Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, Penn, and, tattling In Paw- 
tucket, began the practice of medicine. 

Dr. Carpenter entered the service of his country in the War of the 
Rebellion, as surgeon of the Twelfth Rhode Island Infantry, Oct. 13, 

1862, and served with it during its term of service until its final muster 
out, July 29, 1S63. Dr. Carpenter's son, Frank II. Carpenter, was hos- 
pital steward in this regiment. Dr. Carpenter again entered the service 
as surgeon of the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. His com- 
mission is dated Oct. 16, 1S63, and he was remustered to date Sept. 5, 

1863. He made his headquarters with the Third Battalion at Camp Para- 
pet, La. Here, in addition to the duties of surgeon of the post, he was 
appointed acting medical director and inspector of the District of Car- 
rollton, June 15, 1S64. Lieutenant-Colonel Viall pays this just tribute to 
Dr. Carpenter: "To Dr. Benoni Carpenter, surgeon of the regiment, 
great credit was due for his skillful and efficient efforts for the care of the 
sick." He was mustered out with his regiment Oct. 2, 1865. 

After the war he resumed the practice of his profession in Paw tucket, R.I. 
He was for several years a member of the school committee of the old 
town of Pawtucket, and served his constituency in both branches of the 
General Assembly of the State. He was a member of the Rhode Island 
Medical Society. 

Dr. Carpenter was married in 1S33 to Miss Adelaide Hverett, of Wren- 
tham, Mass. By a mysterious dispensation of Providence, he and his 
wife died within a few days of each other. His wife after a long illncs* 
died Nov. 17, 1S77. Her funeral was to have taken place on the Tuesday 
following. On the morning of that day Dr. Carpenter appeared to be in 
his usual health, but shortly after breakfast he was seized with a fit of 
apoplexy, and despite the best of medical assistance remained in an un- 
conscious state until the next morning (November 22d) when he died. 
The funeral of his wife was postponed in consequence of his sudden 
.demise, and his six children — four sons and two daughters — who were 
called together for the first time in twelve years by the death of their 
mother, followed a few days later both of their parents to the grave 
at the same time, the double funeral occurring at the Congregational 
Church in Pawtucket, Nov. 23, 1S77. 



280 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

JOSEPH R. DRAPER. 

Assistant Surgeon Joseph R. Draper was born in Wayland, Mass., 
June 30, 1830. In early life he attended the common schools, and after- 
wards the Wayland Academy. After the death of his father, which 
occurred when he was fourteen years of age, he entered Lawrence Acad- 
emy, Groton, Mass., where he remained three years. At the end of that 
time he entered Williams College, and graduated in 1851. He spent 
several years teaching the High Schools of Saxonville and Milford, after 
which he spent a year and a half in the South. After his return he 
studied medicine in the Harvard and Berkshire Medical Schools, and 
graduated from the latter in 1862. He entered the Medical Department 
of the United States army in 1862, and was assigned to service in the 
Armory Square Hospital, Washington, D. C. Dec. 1, 1S63, he was 
commissioned assistant surgeon of the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy 
Artillery, and served with that regiment in the Department of the Gulf. 
HewasmusteredinDec.11, 1863, and assigned to the First Battalion. 
After his discharge from the army, which occurred on the second day of 
October, 1865, he practiced his profession in South Boston for more than 
twenty years, where he was much respected and trusted, both as a citizen 
and a physician. He died Aug. 5, 18S5. His son, Dr. Joseph R. Draper, 
is a practicing physician in South Boston. 



JOSEPH CARY WHITING, Jr. 

First Lieutenant and Adjutant Joseph Cary Whiting, Jr., was 
born in Providence, R. I., Aug. 2, 1S40. His maternal ancestor on this 
side of the seas was Elizabeth (St. John) Whiting. She was the second 
wife of Lawrence Whiting, first Congregational minister of Lynn, Mass. 
(1630). She was a descendant of the Barons of St. John, of Bledsoe, 
and sister of Oliver St. John, Chief Justice of the English Common- 
wealth, and cousin of Oliver Cromwell, its Founder and Defender. 

The maiden name of Lieutenant Whiting's mother was Patience Bor- 
den (family pronunciation Burden) Durfee. Benjamin Durfee, her pro- 
genitor, settled at Tiverton, R. I., in 1680. Her mother was Hannah, 
daughter of Elisha Anthony, of Newport. Elisha Anthony's ancestral 
tree was planted at Mount Hope by John Anthony, in 1650, or twenty- 
five years before King Philip was killed there. Lieutenant Whiting's 
grandmother on the paternal side was Elizabeth Cary, daughter of Joseph 
Cary, who married in Providence, in 1763, Elizabeth Carew. Joseph 
Cary came a babe in arms to Providence about 1730, with his father, who 
moved up from Bristol, where his great grandfather, John Cary, settled 
in 1640. He crossed to Bristol from South Braintree, Mass., where his 
father, John, and a few others bought land of the Indians, and settled in 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 

1630. The Carvs came from Bristol, England, where the father of John 
(of Massachusetts) was major. Hugh l)e Kary, the English progenitor 
of the tribe, crossed into England with the Conqueror. 

Lieutenant Whiting's father was born in Providence in 1796, nil 
mother in Newport in 1S00. Her family built ships and were of the 
original proprietors of Long Wharf, and another wharf lun- since sunk 
under the waters of the Bay. Lieutenant Whiting's grandfather, Nathaniel 
Palmer Whiting, was born near Norwich, Conn., at Voluntown. His 
ancestors were of the Hartford ami Windsor colonies. The first expedi- 
tion against Canada from New England was led from Hartford, i 
by a Colonel Whiting, and the family were epiite prominent there and at 
Windsor. The family of Whitings i s not a numerous one, but it fur- 
nished eleven officers of the line to the Revolutionary foi 

Lieutenant Whiting's mother's family were Quakers, and suffered seri- 
ously through the occupation of Newport by the British. Her 
father, besides his Newport ship-yards, owned about 7,000 acres of lim- 
ber land, — a tract extending from Fall River to Fail haven; and of this 
estate he contributed about one- half, in silver obtained therefrom, to 
help the Colonists. 

The subject of our sketch attended in his youth the Summer Street Pri- 
mary, Intermediate, and Grammar Schools, and the Providence High 
School, of the Class of '58. He graduated with the Class of '57, and at- 
tended " Chemistry Lectures " at Brown. He was subsequently employed 
as a clerk in the Merchants Bank, Providence, K. I., from April 
to April, 1S59. He was engaged in the survey of Denver, Colorado, in 
the summer of 1S59. He left Brush Creek, the scene of a battle of the 
Civil War, on the 27th of March, 1S59, with an ox team train in ■ 
of A. C. Hunt, who afterwards (under President Andrew Johnson) was 
Governor of the Territory of Colorado. He reached the then little settle- 
ment of Denver, June 27th. He returned to the " States, " the same mm;, 
leaving Denver November 2d, and reaching Plattsmouth, NY 
Dec. 2, 1S59. He then went out on the old Santa Fc trail to the crossing 
of the Arkansas, thence up the river to where Pueblo now is, and thence 
"over the Divide," and returned via the right bank of the Platte, a jour- 
ney afoot of about fourteen hundred miles. He cast his fust rote at the 
age of nineteen, for delegates to the first convention of the then in, 
ized territory of Colorado, and attended the convention. He subse- 
quently returned to Rhode Island, and was a student at home until his 
entrance into the military service. He was enrolled as a private in 
Company E, Tenth Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1S62. and was mus- 
tered in the same date. He was afterwards promoted to corpoi 
served with his company in the Defences of Washington, D. C H 
mustered out with his regiment at the expiration of its term ol - 
Sept. 1, 1S62. 



282 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

He afterwards assisted in recruiting Company A, Twelfth Rhode Island 
Infantry, expecting to be its first lieutenant, but was unjustly deprived of 
his commission, and went out as sergeant, and mustered in as such Oct. 
13, 1S62. He participated with his regiment in the battle of Fredericks- 
burg. He still retains the musket which, when his own became foul, he 
crept out from under cover to secure from among the slain. 

After the battle of Fredericksburg Lieutenant Whiting was promoted to 
first sergeant of his company, Jan. 1, 1863, and was subsequently com- 
missioned second lieutenant, May 23, 1863, and mustered in as such to 
date from June 2, 1863. He participated with the Twelfth in its cam- 
paign in Kentucky and the West, where it gained by its severe and har- 
assing marches the sobriquet of the "Trotting Twelfth." He was mus- 
tered out July 29, 1S63. 

In the formation of the Fourteenth on the Dexter Training Ground, he 
rendered invaluable assistance to Colonel Viall, and served as adjutant of 
the regiment from the beginning to the end of its organization, rendering 
conspicuous and faithful service. He was appointed regimental adjutant 
Aug. 27, 1863, and mustered into service Sept. 14, 1863. When the 
Third Battalion left Dutch Island, April 3, 1S64, he accompanied Colonel 
Viall to New Orleans. When regimental headquarters were established at 
Camp Parapet, just above Carrollton, Lieutenant-Colonel Viall assumed 
command of the post, and Lieutenant Whiting was post adjutant. 
When Lieutenant-Colonel Viall was in command of the District of Car- 
rollton Lieutenant Whiting was his acting assistant adjutant-general. 
He served in this capacity till Aug. 22, 1S64, when he was summoned by 
Colonel Sypher to the new regimental headquarters established at Plaque- 
mine, La. He was a member of a military commission from Oct. 26, 
1864, until Nov. 21, 1864. He afterwards accompanied Colonel Sypher 
on his various details for duty, viz.: to New Orleans, to Greenville, 
back again to Plaquemine, to Donaldsonville, and regimental orders to 
all the battalions were issued from these points. 

Lieutenant Whiting was mustered out with his regiment at Camp Para- 
pet, La., Oct, 2, 1865. After the war he located in Louisiana in 1S66, 
except two months, when he was North recovering from typhoid fever. 
After convalescing he was elected and accredited one of the two delegates 
to the first soldiers' and sailors' convention (Pittsburg), 1S66. He was 
Mayor Thomas A. Doyle's secretary from March to October, 1867. From 
1867 to 1871 he was in mercantile business in Chicago. From 1871 to June 
1, 1876, he was engaged in the same business in St. Louis, Mo. He 
founded in St. Louis what is now known as The Standard Stamping 
Company. Retired from same April, 1SS1. Engaged in mining since 
in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Montana. He is a member of the 
California Commandery of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the 
United States; is also a "Colorado Pioneer." 




LIEUT. LESTER S. HILL 

Major and Surgeon, First Rhode Island Volunteers, 
in the War with Spain 



From a recent picture. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 

JOHN B. PEIRCE. 

First Lieutenant and Quartermaster ]<>h\ B. 1'i.iiu i was bom 
in North Kingstown, R. I., July 19, 1S27, on what is familiarly known as 
Boston N'eck. His life was an eventful one. After leaving the district 
schools he took a course of study at the Lapham Institute, in Smithfield, 
R. I. lie was engaged a short time in school teaching after leaving 
school. He, however, secured a position as bookkeeper and paymaster 
at Larcher's print works in Smithfield, where In- remained several years. 
After this, he with his brother, Thomas C, engaged in the grocery bu-i- 
ness on Canal Street, in Providence, R. I. 

At the time of the gold excitement, in 1S49, both brothers started for 
California, previously selling out their business. They remained <>nl\ a 
year or two, however. I'pon their return East Mr. Peirce with K 
others formed a company for the purpose of carrying on the business of 
calico printing, and established themselves at what is now known as the 
Greenwich Print Works. The company afterwards removed to Smith- 
field, and continued the business until the hard times of 1S57 came on, 
when they were obliged to fail. He next became the agent of the Proi l« 
dence Iron Foundry, remaining with the firm until he entered the I 
States service, in 1S63. In that year he was commissioned first lieutenant 
in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. He was immedi- 
ately assigned to the position of quartermaster of the regiment, in 
which capacity he served throughout his term of service. At the close of 
the war he received a captain's commission, and remained in the service 
until 1866. He was stationed at New Orleans and Shreveport. I 
and served as acting assistant quartermaster. He also had charge of the 
transportation department. Upon receiving his discharge he came to 
Wickford, where his family had resided during his military service. 
Here he engaged in the grocery business, and afterwards the grain busi- 
ness, until during the remaining years of his life he made the latter a 
specialty, establishing a steam mill and receiving his Ljrain by the cargo. 

Mr. Peirce had always taken an active interest in the public affairs of 
the community in which he lived, and received many offices of trust. 
While a citizen of Providence he was elected alderman for three consecu- 
tive years from the Seventh Ward, and resigned that position only to 
enter upon his duties in the Civil War. In 1S67, the year following his 
return from the war he was elected president of the town council 01 N 
Kingstown, and served in that capacity for five consecutive years. In 
1S6S and 1869 he represented the town in the State Senate. In 1S73 he 
was elected town clerk, and that position he held until the day of his 
death, and his popularity was so pronounced that he never had an oppos- 
ing candidate. Mr. Peirce had always been a staunch Democrat, and had 
been honored by the Democratic party on several occasions, receiving the 
nominations for secretary of state and lieutenant governor. In 1879 he 



284 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

was a delegate from Rhode Island to the Chicago Convention which nom- 
inated Tilden and Hendricks. 

In his public offices he had always been most faithful to his trusts, de- 
voting a large portion of his time to the interests of town affairs. No 
one in the town was so well posted in the probate business, and his gen- 
eral information concerning the records of the town was remarkable. 
Every leisure moment was occupied in poring over the charred records 
which were saved from the fire several years ago, and in that way he had 
acquired a fund of information that will ever stand as a monument to his 
indefatigable zeal and painstaking labors. 

He was an active member in the fraternity of Free Masons. At the 
time of his coming to Wickford in 1S66, Washington Lodge, No. 5, A. F. 
and A. M., had not had any communications for many years, having 
been compelled to yield to the Anti-Masonic movement years before. 
Through the efforts of Mr. Peirce a dispensation was received from the 
Grand Master, Thomas A. Doyle, that same year, and with fourteen 
members Washington Lodge, No. 5, was reinstituted. Mr. Peirce was 
the first Master, which position he held during several years. Previous 
to this date Mr. Peirce was a member of Mount Vernon Lodge, No. 4, of 
Providence. At the time of his decease he was a member of Providence 
Royal Arch Chapter, Providence Council, and St. John's Commandery, 
all of Providence. 

At the time cf his death Mr. Peirce was at work upon a genealogy of 
the Peirce family. Upon this he had labored assiduously, making it a 
most perfect work so far as completed. His great liking for such work 
caused him to overtask himself, the early morning often finding him still 
at work, poring over all records and papers, and doubtless hastened his 
death, which occurred March 26, 1885. 



THOMAS W. FRY. 

Captain Thomas W. Fry was born in Godelin, Surrey, England, 
Jan. 26, 1830. He came to this country in his youth, and pursued the 
occupation of jeweler until his entrance into the army. At an early age 
he became interested in military affairs, and joined the National Cadets of 
Providence. In order to stimulate the men to proficiency in the use and 
handling of their arms, prizes were often awarded to the members who 
excelled in marksmanship. In September, 1856, this company made an ex- 
cursion to Portsmouth Grove, R.I., at that time a celebrated shore resort. 
On this occasion private Fry for his excellent record in target practice was 
made the recipient of an elegant silver cup, which bore this inscription : 
"Presented by the Commissioned Officers ef the National Cadets to 
Private T. W. Fry for the best shots made in the second section at Ports- 
mouth Grove, Sept. 1, 1856" June 9, 1S57, he was appointed corporal, 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 2X5 

and was afterwards promoted to sergeant. At the commencement ot 1 lu- 
nar he was commissioned by the Governor as lieutenant in the " C. 
and continued in this office until he received a commission as first lieu- 
tenant of Company A, Third Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Aug. X>, 
1S61. He participated with his regiment in Gen. Thomas W-. Sherman's 
Port Royal South Carolina Expedition, in November, 1S61, and mw 
active service with his company while he remained with the Third. He 
was in command of Company L, at Hilton Head, S. C., from June, 1862, 
until Aug., 1862; on detached service with Company G. at Tort Pulaski, 
Ga., from Sept. 12, 1862, until May 9, 1863. He resigned his comra 
June 15, 1863, and returned to Rhode Island. 

On the 17th of June of this year Gov. James V. Smith obtained per- 
mission from the War Department to organize and enlist a company ot 
colored soldiers for heavy artillery service. Lieutenant Fry received an 
appointment as captain of this company. About this time the draft riots 
occurred in New York City, and our State authorities were apprehensive 
of trouble in Rhode Island from similar causes. During this season of 
anxiety and unrest this company, in conjunction with the Thirteenth 
Rhode Island Volunteers and the militia, performed guard duty in the 
city and its environs. The Thirteenth Rhode Island, under the com- 
mand of Col. Nelson Viall, and Captain Fry's company of colored men 
were encamped on the Dexter Training Ground. Shortlv afterwards 
orders were received from Washington to disband all six months regi- 
ments then recruiting at the North, and as the Thirteenth Rhode Island 
was included in this order, the two companies already formed were dis- 
banded. In the meantime authority was granted from the War Depart- 
ment to raise another company of colored men, and still later permission 
was obtained to recruit a full regiment of heavy artillery, and Colonel 
Viall was appointed by Governor Smith to superintend its organization 
and fit it for the field. The company under Captain Fry's command was 
designated as Company A. On the 2d of September, 1S63, his company 
was ordered to Dutch Island, where it immediately began to labor upon 
the fortifications then in process of erection, as did the several companies 
of the regiment that followed later. 

A correspondent of the Providence Journal, who was a member of 
Company A, in a letter to that paper said : 

" We are finely situated on the northwest end of the island, command- 
ing an extensive view on both sides. . . . Our captain has by his 
gentlemanly conduct and soldierly abilities won the regard and love oi 
every man in the company." 

The First Battalion of the Fourteenth, comprising Companies A. 1'.. 
C, and D, proceeded to New Orleans on the 19th of December, 1S63. and 
arrived at New Orleans on the 30th. It tarried at the latter place but a 
few davs and then proceeded to Fort Esperanza. Texas, which fort it was 
detailed to garrison. 



286 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

March 15, 1S64, we find Captain Fry on detached service as acting 
assistant inspector-general. He remained in this position but a short 
time, when he returned to his command. On the 10th of April he was 
ordered with his company to Aransas Pass, on Mustang Island, Texas. 
Here was a small earthwork that guarded the approaches to Corpus 
Christi. In this earthwork was mounted some four or five smooth-bore 
pieces of artillery that showed evidence of service in the Mexican War. 
Here he remained with his company until May, 1864, when he was 
directed to rejoin his battalion and proceed to Camp Parapet, La., where 
the Third Battalion was stationed. June 25, 1S64, he was ordered to take 
command of the Chicago Mercantile Battery, its officers being sick or on 
detached service. He remained with the battery until July 25, 1864. 

On the 3d of Juh', 1864, the First Battalion proceeded to garrison Forts 
Jackson and St. Philip on the Mississippi. Captain Fry in a letter home 
thus describes the unhealthy surroundings which environed this bat- 
talion in the lowlands of Louisiana: 

" It is very sickly here. Since coming to this Post I have lost twenty- 
three men by death. I have lost twenty-eight in all. None of the offi- 
cers have died as yet, but all have been sick with the fever; three of them 
are at present in the hospital at New Orleans." 

In June, 1S65, while the First Battalion was stationed at Brashear City, 
Captain Fry with his company was selected by Lieut. Charles H. Chace 
(then on detached service on the staff of Brig. -Gen. Robert A. Cameron), 
to accompany him on an expedition to New Iberia, for the purpose of 
making arrangements for the surrender of Capt. Bailey Peyton Vinson 
and his company of scouts to the United States authorities. 

Captain Fry was mustered out with his regiment Oct. 2, 1865. He died 
April 9, 18S7. 



HENRY SIMON. 

Captain Henry Simon was a descendant of a noble family of Ger- 
many, bearing the name of Rinscoff. His father, Pierre Simon Rinscoff, 
emigrated from Frankfort-on-the-Main to France, where he dropped this 
patronymic, and retained only the christian and middle name, by which 
he was thenceforth known. The subject of our sketch, son of Pierre and 
Emily Simon, was born in Bordeaux, France, in the year 1S12. When 
he was about three years of age his father emigrated with his family to 
the United States, and settled in New York City. Henry Simon attended 
the public schools of that city in his youth. After leaving school he 
entered a book-store, but subsequently learned the jeweler's trade. After 
completing his term of service, he engaged in business on his own 
account, and obtained considerable celebrity for the manufacture of 
"curb chain," in which he was particularly skilled. In 1845 he went to 
Providence, and for several years was associated with Mr. James E. Bud- 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 287 

long in the manufacture of jewelry. This connection was subsequently 

dissolved, and he continued in the same business. 

Mr. Simon early interested himself in military affairs, and while in 
New York City joined the Light Guard, a celebrated military organiza- 
tion of that city, and thus was formed a natural taste for military life. 
At the outbreak of the Rebellion he manifested ■ patriotic desire to 
the Union cause, and when the Fourth Rhode island infantry was 
ized, on Oct. 2, 1S61, he was commissioned captain of Company C of that 
regiment, and accompanied General Burnside in his North Carolina 
expedition, lie shared with his regiment in the perils and discomforta 
of the voyage to Hatteras. The short allowance of water, inferior quality 
of rations, and the offensive atmosphere of closely packed quarte 
shipboard, were themes of mirthful description, while the sternei 
ties of battles at Roanoke island, New Berne, and the siege 01 
Macon, called out the finer qualities of a soldierly spirit. Captain Simon 
participated in all the varied experiences of the regiment, until A 
1S62, when he resigned and returned to Rhode Island. 

In the early formation of the Fourteenth he took an active interest 
and was appointed captain of Company B, Sept. [3, [863. His company 
was attached to the First Battalion of the Fourteenth. He p«X 
with it to New Orleans, and from thence to Fort Esperanza, Texas. 
This battalion remained here until it was ordered to Camp Parapet, La., 
and in July by direction of Gen. T. W. Sherman proceeded to For' 
son and St. Philip, on the Mississippi, which forts the battalion 
soned for several months. 

We quote from Bartlett's Memoirs of Rhode Island Officers: "A sun- 
stroke, from which he never entirely recovered, was followed by an 
attack of chills and fever, which, with his ordinary duties, ami the 
anxiety induced by the sickness of more than forty of his men. paved 
the way for the utter prostration of his system, and ultimate death. 
Describing his situation at that time, he says: 'I would far rather In- 
placed in the front, liable at any moment to be engaged with the enemy, 
than in this. It is nothing, in comparison, to fall in the field, where at 
least one has an honorable death.' Here, his eldest son, a youth of fif- 
teen years, to whom he was devotedly attached, sickened of malignant 
typhoid and died September 6th. The loss of rest in constantly taking 
care of him, and the mental depression caused by the bereavement, 
together with anxious thought for his family, which occupied his mind 
to his latest hour, probably hastened the fatal termination of disease, that 
under brighter skies, might have been averted. Soon after the >. 
of his son, Captain Simon was seized with the same malignant dl 
He was removed to Saint James Hospital, in New Orleans, where, Oct. 6, 
1864, at the age of fifty-two years, he yielded up his mortal life. 

"Captain Simon was a man of courteous manners, cherished a high 
sense of honor, and, as an officer, an excellent disciplinarian 



288 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

possibilities of the battle-field were ever present to his mind, and a filial 
trust in an all-gracious Providence disciplined him to contemplate calmly 
results that might prove fatal to himself. In the darkest experiences of 
life, a cheerful and hopeful nature looked forward with confidence to the 
lifting of the cloud. His purest enjoyments were in the midst of his 
family, to whom, in an extraordinary degree, he was tenderly devoted. 
To a surviving widow and nine children his loss is irreparable. With 
the fire department, under the volunteer system, he was honorably asso- 
ciated, and discharged the duties of his position with energy and fidelity. 
The strong hold he had upon the respect of those who knew him most 
intimately in private life, was equally apparent in his regiment, the offi- 
cers and men of which, in token of regard, defrayed the expense of re- 
moving his remains from New Orleans to Providence, while the enlisted 
men of his company contributed and forwarded to his family, a purse of 
nearly one hundred and fifty dollars, — a spontaneous and touching tribute 
to the worth of their commander as a man and an officer." 



JOEL METCALF, Jr. 

Captain Joel Metcalf, Jr., son of Joel and Susannah (Houghton) 
Metcalf, was born in Providence, R. I., June 2, 1838. He is descended 
from an old Rhode Island family. His cousin, Col. Edwin Metcalf, was 
a distinguished lawyer of Providence, and a gallant soldier in the War of 
the Rebellion. Captain Metcalf attended the public schools of his native 
city in his youth, and graduated from the Providence High School. At 
the time of his entrance into service his occupation was that of a clerk. 

He was enrolled and mustered as first sergeant of Company F, Tenth 
Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1S62 ; mustered out Sept. 1, 1S62; 
commissioned first lieutenant Company H, Eleventh Rhode Island 
Infantry, Oct. 1, 1S62; mustered in same date; mustered out as first 
lieutenant Dec. 31, 1S62 ; promoted and mustered in as captain, Com- 
pany H, Jan. 1, 1863; mustered out July 13, 1S63. He was commissioned 
as captain in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Oct. 27, 1863, 
and assigned to Company D; re-mustered to date Sept. 22, 1863; borne on 
general court-martial from Oct. 6, 1864, until Nov., 1864; borne on gen- 
eral court-martial at New Orleans, La., from Nov. 5, 1864, until Jan., 
1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

At the close of the war he was engaged as bookkeeper at the Merchants 
Bank in Providence, R. I., for many years. He died Dec. 11, 1895. Hewas 
greatly esteemed among his associates, both in civil and military life, 
and his many noble and manly qualities endeared him to a wide circle 
of friends and acquaintances. 

He was a member of the First Congregational Church, of Providence, 
R. I. He was one of the founders of the Unitarian Club, and for many 
years its secretary. 




LIEUT. FOHN A REYNOLDS 



J* 






HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 289 

GEORGK BUCKLIN. 

Captain GEORGE BUCKLIN was horn in Brooklyn, \. Y.. Feb. 26, 1843. 
His lather, Thomas P. Bucklin, was a New York merchant. Hi- busi- 
ness was a tea importer, under the firm name of Bucklin & Crane. The 
firm owned a large number of vessels, some of them the Bnesl clippers 

that sailed from the port of New York, which included tin- ships Com*/, 

Intrepid, Black //<;:. I, anil Celestial. Some years before the war he 
retired from business and took up his residence with his family in East 
Providence, R. I. Captain Bucklin, his son, attended the Polytechnic 
Institute in Brooklyn as a student. He first entered the service of the 
United States as private in Company I), Tenth Rhode Island infantry, 
May 26, 1862, at the second three months' call for troops to defend Well- 
ington. His company was stationed at Fori De Russejr, in tfa 
of Washington. Mustered out with his regiment Sept. 1, 1S62. He re- 
entered the service as a second lieutenant of Company F, Twelfth Rhode 
Island Infantry, Oct. 9, 18S2. Transferred to Company A, March 7 
Transferred to Company H.June 2, 1863. He participated with hi 
ment in the battle of Fredericksburg. The regiment was in the second 
general advance on the enemy's works and suffered severely. Colonel 
Browne in his official report to General Nagle, spoke in high com- 
mendation of the good conduct of his men, and among others he named 
Lieutenant Bucklin as meriting special mention, and recommended him 
for promotion, which he afterwards received, being commissioned first 
lieutenant and transferred to Company C, June 15, 1S63 The regiment 
afterwards went with General Burnside, and served with him in the Ken- 
tucky campaign. The regiment was mustered out of service July 29 

L T pon his return to Rhode Island Lieutenant Bucklin was commis- 
sioned captain in the First Brigade, Rhode Island Militia, Sept. 1. 
but resigned about September 21st, to accept a captaincy in the Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery (Colored). Passed examination as 
captain at Washington, D. C, before General Casey's Board, ami was 
appointed captain by the President of the United States, in same regi- 
ment, and assigned to Company C. He was re-mustered to date 
Nov. 23, 1863. He was stationed with his battalion at Fort Bsperanza, 
Matagorda Island, from Jan. 3, 1S64, until May uj, [864. Removed to 
Fort Jackson, La., on the Mississippi River, July 3, 1S64. Removed to 
Brashear City, La., in May, 1S65. Company was detached and placed 
in command at Fort Buchanan, Bayou Teche, where it was flooded out 
and returned to Brashear City. Captain Bucklin resigned his commis- 
sion at the close of the war (.Aug. 24. 1865), and returned North. He 
subsequently bought a cotton plantation in Alachua County, Florida, 
and resided there for five years. Since that time he has been int. 
in real estate mostly, and for a number of years has relinquished hi. 
entirely. 
19 



29O FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

He is a member of the Colorado Commandery of the Military Order 
of the Loyal Legion of the United States, Bucklin Post, No. 20, Grand 
Army of the Republic, of East Providence, R. I., Providence Chess 
Club, president of the San Antonio Chess Club of San Antonio, Texas. 
Also a member of the San Antonio Club of the same place, and the 
Metropolitan Club of Denver, Colorado. Is now a resident of the city 
of Providence, R. I. 



NELSON KENYON. 

Captain Nelson Kenyon was born in the town of Griswold, Conn., 
on the 29th day of June, 1S17. His parents died when he was a mere 
lad, and, in consequence, he was compelled to depend upon his own 
exertions in the battle of life. He bargained with a farmer to work three 
years for his board and clothes, with the understanding that he should 
have three months' schooling in the year. After completing his term of 
service with the farmer, he went to Natick and worked for the Spragues 
nine years. Here he succeeded in saving money enough to enter into 
partnership with William A. Northrop, and they engaged in business at 
Millville, Mass., in a general variety store; in which connection they 
continued for five years, when Mr. Kenyon sold his interest to Northrop, 
and bought out the J. & W. Slater Company Store, at Jevvett City. Here 
he remained for five years and then removed to Worcester, Mass. About 
the year 1858 he went West for a company to prospect and purchase a 
cannel-coal mine. He could not find what he considered would be advan- 
tageous for the company that sent him out, and afterwards returned to 
the East. At the time of the breaking out of the Rebellion Mr. Kenyon, 
who had had some experience in military affairs, having in 1S55 been 
captain of Company D, Third Regiment Connecticut Militia, returned 
East and made application to Governor Sprague of Rhode Island for per- 
mission to recruit a company in Burrillville and that vicinity for the 
Fourth Rhode Island Infantry. By the indomitable energy which always 
characterized him he succeeded in raising a company to its maximum 
number, and reported with it to Camp Greene, in Warwick, R. I., and, 
by direction of Col. J. S. McCarthy, was placed in command of the camp 
until the regiment left for Washington. He participated with his regi- 
ment in the perils of Hatteras, the battles of Roanoke Island, New Berne, 
and the Siege of Fort Macon. He resigned his commission at Fredericks- 
burg, Va., Aug. 11, 1S62, and returned North. In the fall of 1863, desir- 
ing to re-enter the service, he appeared before the Examining Board in 
Washington, and passed as a captain. He was assigned to the command 
of Company G, Second Battalion, of the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy 
Artillery. In January, 1S64, the Second Battalion under the command 
of Captain Kenyon proceeded to New Orleans, and from thence was 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORE! 

ordered to English Turn, La., where, on the 7th of March, Major Shaw 
arrived and assumed command of the battalion. From English Turn 
the battalion removed to Plaquemine, where Major Shaw became post 
commander and Captain Ken von again resumed command of the bat- 
talion. He remained in this position until July, 1S04, when he m 
lieved by Major Shaw, the colonel, J. Hale Sypher having arrive, 1 in the 
department and taken command of the post as well as the regiment. 
Captain Kenyon was frequently assigned to the command of the battalion 
in the absence of Major Shaw, or when the latter officer was in command 
of the post. Nov. 7, 1S64, he was detached as provost marshal of Iber- 
ville Parish, and continued in that position until relieved from dutv 
Dec. 8, 1864. He was mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. He remained in Lou- 
isiana, and, in partnership with Major Ewell (formerly of the Confed- 
erate service), hired a plantation in Avoyelles Parish, for the purpose of 
raising cotton, but in the spring of 1 866 the tloods destroyed their crops 
and they lost all they possessed. In March, iv,\ lie was appointed 
Registrar for the whiles and blacks of the Parish of Iberville. June 5, 
1S6S, he was made tax collector of the parish, and on the 39th of the 
same month he received the appointment of collector of internal rev- 
enue for the District of New Orleans. For two years he represented the 
Parish of Iberville in the Legislature of that State. 

He resided for several years in Louisiana, and then removed to Chi- 
cago. 111., and engaged in the harness business. He afterwards went to 
Cleveland, Ohio, and was the inventor and maker of the 
"Kenyon's American Catarrh Cure." He remained there four yeais, 
and then came East and settled in Worcester. Mass, where he was en- 
gaged in the general collection and brokerage business. Captain Ken- 
yon's son, George T. Kenyon, was a musician in the Second ! 
Island Infantry. Captain Kenyon's failing health compelled him 
linquish business, and for several years he was an inmate of t 
Home in Bristol, R. I., where he died June 2, 1 



GEORGE W. COLL. 

Captain George W. Cole was born In the town of Coventry, R. I. 
on the eighth day of September. 1835. Hi- indfather on his 

mother's side was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, and his 
father served in the War of 1S12. 

The subject of our sketch obtained a good common school education in 
the local country schools, and afterwards attended th( lli_;h 

School and later the East Greenwich Academy. At the age oi 
he taught his first school for four months in a small country district, at 
fourteen dollars a month, boarding around. He taught school most of 
the time before the war, working for a while as clerk in a dry goods and 
grocery store. 



292 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

He enlisted in the Union army as a private in Battery G, First Rhode 
Island Light Artillery, Nov. 11, iS6i, and was mustered in Dec. 2, 1S61. 
He was subsequently promoted to corporal, serving for several months as 
acting chief of the first piece, and participated with his battery in all the 
battles of McClellan's Peninsular campaign. He was discharged for 
disability Dec. 2, 1S62. Recovering his health in the summer of 1863, he 
was commissioned a first lieutenant in the State militia, retaining that 
position until he was commissioned as captain in the Fourteenth Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery, on the 10th of November, 1S63, after an examina- 
tion by General Casey's Military Board at Washington, D. C. 

After assisting in the organization of several companies at Dutch Island, 
he was assigned to Company E, and re-mustered to date Oct. 20, 1S63. 
He proceeded with his battalion to New Orleans, La., in January, 1S64, 
and was stationed for awhile at English Turn, a few miles below the city. 
While in camp at that place Captain Cole was given the command of a 
detachment from his battalion that was detailed to take part in a move- 
ment to be made upon Mobile. His command was held in readiness for 
several days awaiting orders, but for lack of transportation or some other 
reason the services of the detachment were not required. 

Captain Cole was in command of his company doing garrison duty at 
Plaquemine and Donaldsonville, on the Mississippi River, and served on 
several courts-martial. He was president of one that convened at Plaque- 
mine on the 25th of May, 1864. In March, 1S65, he was on detached ser- 
vice as provost marshal of the Parish of Plaquemines, and later the Parish 
of St. Bernard was added to his jurisdiction, in which service he remained 
until he returned to his regiment to be mustered out, Oct. 2, 1865. 

For a few years after the war he engaged in mercantile business, during 
which time he was trustee of a school district, justice of the peace, notary 
public, and postmaster. Returning to his old occupation of teaching, for 
which he was especially qualified, he was principal of the grammar school 
at Valley Falls, R.I., in 1S71-72. In 1873 he became principal of the Grove 
Street Grammar School at Pawtucket, R. I., continuing in that position for 
eighteen and a half years. Resigning on account of poor health, he has 
since been an insurance agent, and has also served as an assistant in the 
office of the city treasurer of Pawtucket. Captain Cole has the respect, 
good will, and love of hundreds of young men and women, who in their 
youthful days received the benefit of his watchful care and instruction in 
school. He is at the present time residing in the village of Anthony, R. I. 

He was formerly a member of Prescott Post, No. 1, Grand Army of the 
Republic, but was afterwards transferred to Tower Post, No. 17, Paw- 
tucket, serving as chaplain of that Post for several years, declining further 
advancement. He was chief mustering officer of the department one 
year, and aid-de-camp on the staff of the commander-in-chief. Prior to 
entering the service in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, in 
1S63, he became connected with the Ancient Order of Free and Accepted 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 293 

Masons, and has held several offices in the Blue Lodge and in the Royal 
Arch Chapter. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum, and also of the 
Knights of Honor, being a past grand dictator and past grand repn 
five of the latter order. He is also a member of the Fii island 

Light Artillery Veteran Association, and has held the office of president 
of the association. 



JOSHUA M. ADDEMAN. 

Captain Joshua M. Addeman was born Nov. 15, 1840, at B 
Islands, New Zealand. His parents had emigrated to this place from 
Australia, attracted by the glowing accounts of its opportuniti 
settlers. After living there a few years they received timely notice of a 
threatened uprising by the natives and arranged to leave the Islands, 
securing passage on a whaling vessel belonging in Providence, R. I. 
Shortly after their departure the insurrection referred to broke out, result- 
ing in the complete destruction of the town and great loss to the settlers 
who remained. After a tedious and hazardous voyage of six months the 
family arrived in Providence in 1S43, and decided to make it their home. 
The subject of the sketch was educated in the public schools of that cit \ 
and at Brown University, graduating with the class of [86a. During his 
college course he enlisted in the Tenth Regiment of Rhode Island Volun- 
teers, one of the emergency regiments called out in May, [862, tor the 
defence of the national capital, and served in Maryland and Virginia 
tluring its three months' term of service. He was actively engaged In 
recruiting, and was appointed a second lieutenant in the Thirteenth 
Regiment of Rhode Island Volunteers, the organization of which vrai 
not completed. He was appointed a second lieutenant in the Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Berving as acting adjutant at Camp 
Smith, Providence, during the organization of the Second Battalion. 
He was subsequently commissioned as captain in that regiment, serving 
for a time with Company L, and then with Company H of the Second 
Battalion until the final disbandment of the regiment, Oct. 27, 1865. 
During his term of service he was frequently ordered on detached service 
as a member or judge advocate of courts-martial and military commis- 
sions, on staff duty and as provost marshal. Prior to his muster out he 
received from the War Department a commission as captain in one of the 
colored regiments stationed in North Carolina, but declined to accept. 

Resuming the study of law, he was admitted to the Rhode Island Bar 
in 1SC6, and engaged for a time in the active practice of his pror 
He was also interested in journalistic work: was clerk of the Rhode 
Island House of Representatives for several years, and in April, I s ; 
elected Secretary of State of Rhode Island, holding that office by annual 
election until 18S7. He was then elected treasurer of the Industrial Trust 
Company, now one of the leading financial institutions of the State, re- 



294 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

taining that position until July i, 1895, when he became vice-president 
of the Company, which office he now holds. He was clerk of the Com- 
mon Council of Providence (1867-S2) ; treasurer of the Rhode Island 
Electric Protective Company ; president of the Franklin Lyceum ; presi- 
dent for four years of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Historical Society of 
Rhode Island ; and has been associated with various other business, 
literary and charitable institutions. He is now a vice-president of the 
Home for Aged Men of Providence; president of the Tenth Rhode Island 
Veterans Association ; and president of the Rhode Island Electric Pro- 
tective Company. He is an honorary member of the Rhode Island 
Society of the Cincinnati, a member of Prescott Post No. 1, Grand Army 
of the Republic; a member of the Grand Lodge of Masons, and of other 
Masonic bodies of Rhode Island. He is married and lives in Providence, 
R. I. 

CHARLES C. CRAGIN. 

Captain Charles C. Cragin was born in Providence, R. I., Dec. 20, 
1 841. Graduated from the Carpenter Street Intermediate School, the 
Fountain Street Grammar School, and the Providence High School. 
Graduated from Brown University in 1863, and from the Chicago Theo- 
logical Seminary in 1S69. Received the degree of A. B. from Brown 
University in 1863, and of A. M. in 1866. From May 26, 1862, to Sept. 
1, 1862, served as a private in Company B, Tenth Rhode Island Infantry. 
He also served as a private in Company D, Second Rhode Island Infantry, 
from July 8, 1S63, to Dec. 5, 1863. On the 10th of December, 1S63, he was 
appointed a captain in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. He 
was assigned to the command of Company F, and retained command of 
it until the muster out of the regiment, Oct. 2, 1865. 

His services were often called into requisition in positions requiring 
good judgment and executive ability, as indicated as follows : On general 
court-martial Oct. 3, 1S64; on inspecting council Oct. 25, 1S64; president 
of a garrison court-martial Dec. 1, 1S64; president of a board of survey 
Dec. 27, 1864; on battalion council of administration Jan. 9, 1S65 ; presi- 
dent of board of survey Jan. 17, 1865; and again in the same capacity 
Feb. 21, 1865; on general court-martial March 6, 1865; on board of inves- 
tigation April 19, 1S65; on military commission May 4, 1865; on battalion 
council of administration May 24, 1S65 ; on military commission at Thi- 
bodeaux, La., July 6, 1865. He was mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. On the 
10th of November, 1S65, he was appointed captain of the Fourteenth 
United States Colored Artillery (Heavy), but declined the appointment. 

Returning to the North he entered the Chicago Theological Seminary. 
After graduating from that institution he was installed pastor of the Con- 
gregational Church, Owatonna, Minn.; Watertown, Wis.; McGregor, 
Iowa; and of the Bethany Church, of Chicago, 111. Dec. 15, 1876, he 
was commissioned chaplain of the Fourth Regiment of Iowa State Guards. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 

Owing to ill health he was compelled to relinquish the ministry, lie 
engaged in business for several Tears on B fruit ranch at San |<>- 
His health subsequently improving he was enabled to resume the " 

the ministry, and was pastor of the Congregational Church of S 

Cal., February, 1S96-1S97 ; since which time he has been pastor 
Congregational Church in Rio Vista, Sonoma County, Cal. 



SAMUEL FARNUM. 

Captain Samuel Farnum was horn in Uxbridge, Mass., Jan. 1 

His parents were Jonathan and Minerva (Buxton) Farnum, worthy 
people of the Quaker persuasion. The first ancestor that emigrated to 
this country in 1635 was Ralph Farnum, who settled in Andover. Mass. 
In 1700 John Farnum, a descendant of Ralph, removed to Uxbridge, 
Mass., where he and his descendants were tillers of the soil, and noted 
for their energy and sturdiness of character. 

Samuel, the subject of our sketch, received his early education In the 
public schools of his native town. He subsequently pursued his studies 
at the Friends' School in Providence, R. I., where he fitted himself for a 
college course. He entered Haverford College in 1S60, and continued in 
that institution until the fall of 1S62, when he was prompted by l 
of duty to offer himself as a soldier in that hour of his country's peril, 
and like Gen. Nathanael Greene, of Revolutionary fame, although ol 
Quaker ancestry, decided to take up arms in defence of the Union. He 
enlisted as a private in Company K, Seventh Rhode Island Infantry, 
Sept. 6, 1862. He was promoted to corporal Jan. 4, [863, and sergeant 
June 4, 1863. 

Sergeant Farnum served faithfully with his regiment, participating in 
its battles and campaigns until Dec. 22, 1S63. when he received an honor- 
able discharge to accept a commission as captain in the Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery (Colored). He was assigned to the com- 
mand of Company I, of the Fourteenth, and joined the Third Battalion 
on Dutch Island, R. I. The Third Battalion proceeded to New < Cleans 
on the 3d of April, 1S64, and from thence were ordered to Camp Parapet, 
La. Here Lieutenant-Colonel Viall assumed command of the district and 
post, and the temporary command of the battalion devolved upon Captain 
Farnum, he being the senior captain, and often acted in that capacity. 
He was on different occasions called to* serve as a member of general and 
field court-martials, and frequently acted as president and judge ad 
of these bodies. 

Captain Farnum was mustered out with his regiment at Camp Parapet, 
La., Oct. 2, 1S65. On his way to the North, on the steamer Atlanta, he 
lost his life by the foundering of that ill-fated vessel. 



296 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

GEORGE A. SPINK. 

Captain George A. Spink was born in the town of Cranston, R. I., 
Sept. io, 1S35. His father, Capt. John Dyer Spink, was the son of 
Ishmael Spink, of Quidnesset Neck, R. I. Robert Spink, the ancestral 
head of the Spink family, emigrated from London, England, to America, 
and settled in Virginia in 1635. He removed to Newport, R. I., in 164S, 
and in 1675 located in Quidnesset, R. I. Among his sons was Nicholas, 
whose son John was the great grandfather of Ishmael, the father of John 
Dyer Spink. John remained on his father's farm until 1S29, when he 
located in Wickford, R. I., and engaged in the mercantile business, under 
the firm name of Spink & Waite. In 1S40 he removed to Cranston, R. I., 
where he resided one year, and then located in Natick, R. I. Capt. George 
A. Spink's mother was Abby Waite, daughter of Col. Beriah Waite, 
son of Stephen Waite. Colonel Waite entered the army at the com- 
mencement of the Revolutionary War, and rose to the rank of colonel, 
which position he held until the termination of the war. He was then 
appointed sheriff of Washington County, a position which he retained 
for more than thirty years. 

Captain George A. Spink received a common school education in the 
village of Natick, R. I., and at an early age was apprenticed to a jewelry 
concern in North Attleboro, Mass. In 1S60 he returned to Natick, and 
subsequently worked at the jewelers' trade in Providence, R. I. 

At the breaking out of the Rebellion he enlisted as a private in Com- 
pany D, First Rhode Island Detached Militia, April 17, 1S61. He was 
the first man to volunteer from the town of Warwick, R. I. He partici- 
pated with his regiment in the battle of Bull Run, and was mustered out 
Aug. 2, 1S61. 

He again entered the service as first lieutenant of Company C, Ninth 
Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1S62. His company was stationed at 
Fort Ricketts, in the Defences of Washington, D. C. He was on court- 
martial duty in the city of Washington for several weeks. He was mus- 
tered out at the expiration of his term of service, Sept. 2, 1862. 

On the 9th of October, 1862, he was commissioned a captain in the 
Twelfth Rhode Island Infantry, and was assigned to Company C. He 
was present with his regiment at the battle of Fredericksburg, and in its 
subsequent campaign in Kentucky. He was mustered out July 29, 1S63. 

Again desirous of serving his country he applied for a commission in 
the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery then being organized. 
He was commissioned a captain in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy 
Artillery Jan. 4, 1864, and assigned to Company L, of the Third Bat- 
talion. He was mustered in Jan. 15, 1864. He accompanied his battalion 
to Louisiana, and was stationed with his company for awhile at Camp 
Parapet, La. 

On the 30th of June, 1864, Captain Spink with his company was de- 
tached from the battalion, and ordered to garrison Fort Banks on the 




LIEUT. JAMES DODDS 



HEAVY ARTILLERV (COLORED). 

opposite side of the river. It was a responsible position, ami req 

the exercise of great tact and firmness on the part of the commanding 

officer. The territory over which his authority extended c- 

tance of nearly seventy miles from Fort Hanks to Donaldsonville on the 

north. 

That Captain Spink's services as commanding officer were appre 
by the citizens residing in the vicinity of Fort Banks, Is attested by the 
fact that upon his retiring from that command he was made the recipient 
of an elegant field glass, presented to him by the citizens of Jefl 
Parish, La. 

Captain Spink was mustered out with his regiment Oct. 2, iS6^. 
his return to Rhode Island he was engaged In the general store business 
at Olneyville, R. I., under the firm name of Spink & Straight. This 
business was closed out in [866, when he associated himself with the 
firm of L. D. Anthony & Co., wholesale dealers in Yankee notions*. 
Captain Spink remained with them with the exception of one year, when 
he was connected with D. M. & L. E. Salisbury & Co., wholesale drj 
goods dealers, until August, 1S77, when the firm of Murray, Spink 
■was organized. He severed his relations with this firm in February, 1897, 
and is now engaged in the general insurance business. 

Captain Spink served as a member of the General Assembly from 
Warwick, for three years, 1873-5 inclusive. He was appointed by the 
Supreme Court as one of the commissioners to assess land damaj 
the Pawtuxet Valley Railroad. He was an inspector of the Hartford, 
Providence and Fishkill Railroad for three years, an appointment by the 
Governor. He was made a Mason in Warwick Lodge, No. [3, I'henix, 
R. I., in 1S66. He subsequently became a member ot Landmark Chap- 
ter, River Point, and of Calvary Commandery, Providence. He i- .1 
member of Palestine Temple, Mystic Shrine; president of the Auburn 
branch of theCo-operative Savings Society of Connecticut; and has been 
president of the Auburn Free Library Association, and Free Masons' 
Building Association. He is a vestryman in the Church of (fu- 
sion. Auburn, and a member of Slocum Post, No. 10, Department of 
Rhode Island Grand Army of the Republic. 



ANTHONY RICHMOND RAWSON. 

[For this sketch of Captain Rawson we arc indebted to Bartlctt's Memo 

Island UjF.csrs.] 

Captain Anthony RICHMOND Rawson, son of the late Samuel 
Rawson, was born in Providence, Feb. 20, 1S36. He was educated in the 
public schools in his native city, but on the death of his father, which 
occurred when Richmond was sixteen, he left the school and went to 
Messrs. Hunt & Owen, jewelers, in whose employ he remained until the 
breaking out of the Rebellion. 



298 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

At the first call for troops he joined the First Rhode Island Detached 
Militia, and, as sergeant of Company D, Capt. Nathaniel W. Brown, he 
served during the three months for which that regiment enlisted, partici- 
pating in the disastrous battle of Bull Run. 

On the 2d of October, 1861, two months after his return, at the recom- 
mendation of his former captain, who had been made colonel of the 
Third Rhode Island Volunteers, he received a commission as second 
lieutenant, and joined that regiment prior to its starting on the expedi- 
tion to South Carolina, under General Sherman. On the nth of March, 
1S62, he was promoted to first lieutenant. On the first of July, 1S63, he 
was detached from his regiment, and ordered to report to Lieut. Guy V 
Henry, Battery B, First United States Artillery. He remained with this 
battery during the summer and fall, joining in the attack on Fort Wagner 
and siege of Charleston. 

On the 26th of October, 1863, Lieutenant Rawson was appointed a cap- 
tain in his regiment, but before his commission reached him he had 
received and accepted an appointment in the Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery, and in December came North to be examined. He 
passed his examination before the examining board of which General 
Casey was president, and, on the 16th of January, 1864, was ordered to 
report to Col. Nelson Viall, at Dutch Island, where the regiment was in 
camp. Captain Rawson proceeded to the island, but an uninterrupted 
service of twenty-seven months in a southern climate, without leave of 
absence, and the exposure in the trenches before Wagner, had seriously 
impaired his constitution, and rendered him unfit to endure the severity 
of a northern winter. After having performed but three days' service, 
he returned home, sick, and lingering through an intensely painful ill- 
ness of nearly four months, he died on the 5th of May, 1864. 

Captain Rawson married November, 1S60, a daughter of Gen. James 
Shaw (who lost another son, Capt. John P. Shaw, a week later, at Spolt- 
sylvania), and left a widow and two little daughters. 



HENRY K. SOUTHWICK. 

Captain Henry K. Southwick, son of Isaac H. and Clarissa Ann 
(Keith) Southwick, was born in Madison, Ind., Oct. n, 1838. He was 
the oldest of seven children. He is of the eighth generation of South- 
wicks in New England, his English ancestor being the famed Lawrence 
Southwick, who with his wife Cassandra, being staunch Quakers, were 
banished from Massachusetts in 1658, by Governor Endicott, and took 
refuge on Shelter Island, in Gardner's Bay, near Long Island, New York. 
His paternal ancestor, John Roberts, was a gallant soldier in the Revolu- 
tion. Both of his parents were natives of Grafton, Mass. His father, 
Isaac H. Southwick, was a prominent business man in the community, 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 299 

and held many important offices of trust and ility. Afl 

gaging in business in the West for several years he returned with his 
family to Grafton, and subsequently removed to Providence) R. I., where 
they ever after resided. 

Henry K. Southwick, the subject of our sketch, attended the public 
schools of Providence, passing through the intermediate, Grammar, and 
High School courses. He entered Brown University, September, 
" Class of 1861." Owing to injuries received in consequence ol Calling 
from a tree, he was unable to return for the Senior year, but receive. 1 hit 

A. B. degree in 1S69. Later on he attended the Albany Law Schoc 
York, and graduated and received the degree <>t LL. 1'.. On examination 
before the Supreme Court he was admitted to practice in all courts of that 
State. Having a taste for military affairs lie was ■ member of tin I 
dence Horse Guards from its organization. The reverses of tin- • 
arms in Virginia, the advance of Lee, threatening Washington, ami the in- 
vasion of Maryland, led him to abandon the practice of law ami a< 
commission as second lieutenant in the Second Rhode Island infantry. 
Sept. 8, 1862, he was mustered to rank from the date of his appointment, 
Aug. 29, 1862. September iSth he reported to Col. Frank Wheaton, com- 
manding the regiment, which at that time was engaged in the battle of 
Antietam. He was assigned to Company F, commanded by Capt. William 

B. Sears, son of President Barnas Sears, of Brown University. N 

ber 10th, although fearfully weak and sick, he commanded his company 
in the grand review of the Army of the Potomac, when McClellan took 
leave of it and Burnside succeeded him. 

November nth, he went to the regimental hospital, having a severe 
attack of typho-malarial fever. November 15th, he was sent to the (Jen- 
eral Hospital, in Washington, D. C. So critical was his condition nt 
that time that it was a question with the medical authorities whether to 
let the regimental hospital tent stand till he (Southwick) diet), instead of 
conveying him to the railroad cars to die on the train before morning. 
But the crisis was passed favorably that night. In December he re 
a convalescent leave of absence of twenty days to visit Rhode Island. At 
the expiration of his leave of absence he returned to his regiment a.. 
the advice of his family physician, as a relapse at that time was almost 
certain death. He reached his regiment in season to take part In 
side's "Mud March." Aug. 18, 1S63, he was commissioned tirst lieuten- 
ant, and was mustered in as such Aug. 2\, 1S63. He participated with 
his regiment in all its campaigns and battles until Feb. 1:. [8641 when he 
was relieved from duty with the Second Rhode Island and ordered to re- 
port to the governor of Rhode Island for a commission in the Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery (Colored). lie appeared before the 1 
ining Board at Washington, D. C., of which Gen. Silas Casey was presi- 
dent, and received a commission as captain from the President of the 
United States, and signed by Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War. He 



300 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

was mustered in and assigned to Company M, Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery, March 24, 1864. He accompanied his battalion (the 
Third) to Carrollton, La., where it was stationed at Camp Parapet, La. 

On the 6th of May, 1S64, he was appointed judge advocate of a general 
court-martial which convened at district headquarters, and borne as such 
until June 17, 1864. July 6, 1864, he was detached from his regiment as 
acting assistant inspector-general, and assigned to dutv as such for the 
District of Carrollton, La., and served in that capacity until Jan. 15, 1861;, 
when he was assigned to duty in West Florida as acting assistant inspector- 
general of infantry and artillery. On the 18th of March, in addition to his 
duties as inspector, he at the request of General Asboth (although not sub- 
ject to his orders in this respect) assumed the additional duties and posi- 
tion of provost marshal of the District of West Florida. On the 14th of 
April, 1865, he was relieved as provost marshal and as acting assistant 
inspector-general of the District of West Florida, and six days later as- 
signed to duty in the same capacity for the District of La Fourche, La., 
where he remained until the District was abolished, July 15, 1865, when he 
was ordered to report to Headquarters District of Eastern Louisiana for 
duty. He personally visited every post in the district except Clinton and 
Fort Livingston. The former was near the Mississippi line, and the 
other at Grande Isle on the south coast. On the 25th of August, 1865, 
Lieut.-Col. Warren D. Smith, chief acting assistant inspector-general of 
the District, was mustered out with his regiment, and Captain Southwick 
succeeded him, but had been in actual charge from Aug. 11, 1S65, and 
so continued until Oct. 2, 1865, when he was mustered out with his regi- 
ment at Camp Parapet, La. 

As indicative of the esteem in which Captain Southwick was regarded 
by his superior officers, it is asserted that when the several battalions of 
the regiment were ordered to assemble at Camp Parapet for muster out, 
Gen. T. W. Sherman, commanding the Eastern District of Louisiana, 
stated to General Canby that Captain Southwick's services were indis- 
pensable, and that he desired to retain him in his position until the regi- 
ment was mustered out. He also said if Captain Southwick would enter 
the regular army, that he would give him his personal assurance of a sat- 
isfactory commission. 

On one occasion Captain Southwick made application to be relieved 
from duty as acting assistant inspector-general for the District of 
La Fourche, not on account of any dissatisfaction with his duties or 
associations, but by a desire to be with his company. Gen. Robert A. 
Cameron, commanding the district, in forwarding the application to the 
department headquarters, endorsed it as follows: 

" Captain Southwick is an excellent officer, fearless and conscien- 
tious. ... I know his labors are arduous and unpleasant, but I 
highly appreciate them, and desire, if right, to retain him." 

Since the close of the war he has been engaged in business in New 
York City. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 30I 

PHANUEL E. BISHOP. 

Captain 1'iiam 1 r. E. BlSHOF was born at the homestead • 
"Bishop's Bend," in the village of Ingraharaville, Pawtucket, R. I . 
March 21, 1S44. He was a son of James Bishop. He was edu 
in the public schools of Pawtucket. In the War of the Rebellic 
enlisted as a private in Company II, Ninth Rhode island infantry, 
May 26, 1S62. He served with his company at Fori Wagner, In the 
Defences of Washington, until the muster out of the regiment! & 
1S62. 

Soon after his return to Rhode Island he entered the class 
Brown University. It was the custom of the students in those days t" 
have a middle name, and he chose that of Euclid, and after that time he 
always included the initials of that name in his signature. He remnined 
in college about a year, when, having received a commission as Brat 
lieutenant in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, he Wl 
signed to Company B. He was often on duty as a member of general 
court-martials, and frequently as judge advocate. April 18, 1864, he was 
detailed as acting battalion quartermaster, and served in that capacity 
until May, 1S64. He was at one time provost marshal of St. Mary's 
Parish, La. On the 9th of September, 1864, he assumed command of 
Company B, and borne as in command of that company until November, 
1S64. On the 9th of that month he was promoted to captain, and was 
mustered out with his regiment Oct. 2, 1S65. 

After returning home he remained but a short time in Rhode Island. 
and went West, graduated from a business college in Chicago, ami was 
for a time superintendent of schools in a city in Iowa. He traveled con- 
siderably, and finally returned to his native place, being at one time 
master of the Grove Street Grammar School. He was also superintend- 
ent of schools, and besides a member of the school committee. While- 
connected with the schools the degree of Master of Arts was conferred 
upon him by Brown University, and he was recognized as one of the 
strongest advocates of a State Normal School. During his leisure hours 
he studied medicine, and afterwards lectures at Bowdoin and Dartmouth 
Colleges. He had been a past post commander of Ballon Poat, and sub- 
sequently a member of Tower Post of the Grand Army of the Republic. 
He was also a member of Union Lodge of Masons, Good Samaritan 
Lodge, I. O. O. F., and connected with the local lodges of the Knights 
of Honor and the Foresters. 

Captain Bishop died in Pawtucket, Sept. 20, 1S90. in the forty-seventh 
year of his age, of Bright's disease and heart trouble. At the time of 
his decease he had been in practice seventeen years. It is said of him 
that "he became well known in the community for his faithful devotion 
to his profession, and was respected for his worth as a man and as a 
physician." 



302 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 



THOMAS B. BRIGGS. 

First Lieutenant Thomas B. Briggs was born in Coventry, R. L, 
Nov. 16, 1825. All the education that he acquired in his youth he re- 
ceived from his father, who taught school in Rhode Island, Massachu- 
setts, and Illinois. His first entry into the military service of the United 
States was as a private in Company G, Fourth Regiment Illinois Volun- 
teer Infantry. His regiment left Springfield, 111., June, 1S46, and was 
stationed at Jefferson Barracks, Mo. ; subsequently proceeded to Mexico 
via New Orleans, stationed at Matamoras, Camargo, Tampico; present 
at landing of troops at Vera Cruz, Mexico, March 9, 1847, and the subse- 
quent bombardment and reduction of the city. He was present with his 
command at the battle of Cerro Gordo, April 17 and 18, 1S47, and was 
mustered out of service with his regiment at New Orleans, May 26, 1S47. 

At the commencement of the War of the Rebellion he was appointed 
first sergeant of Company A, First Rhode Island Detached Militia, April 
17, 1S61. He was mustered in May 2, 1S61, and participated with his regi- 
ment in the battle of Bull Run. He was mustered out of service at the 
expiration of his term of service, Aug. 2, 1861. True to his military 
instincts he again entered the service as captain of Company A, Third 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Aug. 20, 1S61. He was present with his 
regiment at the taking of Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C, November, 
1861, by the naval forces under Commodore Dupont, and the land expe- 
dition under command of Gen. T. W. Sherman. He was in command 01 
Fort Welles, a barbette fort of twenty-two guns, from May to July, 1S62. 
In February, 1863, he was ordered with his company to Beaufort Island, 
S. C, to command a line of intrenchments, comprising six forts mount- 
ing seventeen guns of different calibre. In April, 1S63, while on a re- 
connoisance around Beaufort Island, and in the Coosaw River on the 
armed transport George Washington, with a detachment of his company 
he was fired upon by the enemy about daylight, and before he could reply 
a shot entered the magazine, blowing up the boat and exploding all his 
ammunition, killing and wounding fourteen of his men, and knocking 
him senseless and injuring him considerably. The boat was burned, the 
men who were able escaping to solid land nearly a mile away, while the 
wounded were conveyed by boat to the shore. He resigned his position 
in the Third Rhode Island Heavy Artillery May 22, 1863. 

He re-entered the service as first lieutenant in Company D, Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery (Colored), Sept. 22, 1863. He was ap- 
pointed ordnance officer at Fort Esperanza, Texas, Jan. 15, 1864, and 
subsequently acting ordnance officer First Division Thirteenth Army 
Corps. In May, 1S64, Fort Esperanza was ordered to be evacuated, and 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 303 

Lieutenant Briggs rejoined his battalion, ami was subsequently appointed 
acting ordnance officer on the stall of Brig.-Gen. B. 5. R 
manding District of Carrollton. He was afterwards ordered to turn over 
his ordnance stores to the chief of ordnance, Department of the Gulf, 
and report to his battalion commander at Fort Jackbon, La. On the 8th 
of February, 1805, he was appointed acting assistant quartermaster and 
commissary of Forts Jackson and St. Philip, La. lie u.is relieved of 
these duties May 2, 18651 and ordered to Brashear City, La., and 
appointed battalion quartermaster, and also acting assistant quarter- 
master at that place July 29, 1865. He was relived September i'>, : 
his battalion having been ordered to New Orleans to join the other bat- 
talions for muster out of service, which occurred Q> 

He was appointed second lieutenant in the Third United States Infan- 
try, June iS, 1S67 ; reported at headquarters of his regiment, Fori Leaven- 
worth, Kan., and ordered to join his company at Fort Lyon, Col.; left 
Fort Ilarker in command of a company of recruits Sept. 1, 1807, <v; route 
to Fort Lyon, under command of Gen. John R. Brooke, lieutenant- 
colonel Thirty-seventh Infantry 5 arrived at Fort Lyon September J 5 1 1 1 . 
and reported to Capt. W. H. Penrose, Third Infantry, commanding : 
and Company I; Dec. 5, 1S67, appointed post adjutant; relieved April 5. 
1S6S; waiting orders at his home in Danielsonville, Conn., from April, 
1S69, to April 27, 1S70; assigned to Fourteenth United States Intantr\ 
at Fort Randall, Dakota; company stationed at Crow Creek, Dakota 
Agency, May to August, 1S70; left Crow Creek for Wyoming Terril 
Aug. 4, 1870; stationed at Fort Russell. September to December 31, 1S70; 
on six months' sick leave; stationed at Fort Laramie from August, I 
to July, 1874; promoted to first lieutenant Feb. 9, 1874; company ordered 
to Camp Douglas, Utah. July, [874; acting assistant quartermac 
Camp Stambaugh, Wyoming, from October, 1874, to January, 
company ordered to Fort Hall, Idaho, July, 1875; post adjutant from 
July, 1S75, to October, 1S76; appointed acting assistant quartering 

acting commissary of subsistence and post treasurer from October, 

to March, 1S77 ; appointed acting assistant quartermaster and acting si 
officer from February, 1S78, to August, 1878; ordered before the retiring 
board at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, May 19, 1S79; ordered to hix h 
as unfit for service, May 29, 1879; ordered before a retiring board at Fort 
Omaha, March 22, 1SS1 ; ordered to Fort Lyon, Colorado, for light duty, 
October, 1SS1 ; on duty as member and judge advocate of courts-ma 
ordered to Fort Garland, Colorado; on court-martial dut\ 
received one year's leave, Oct. 24, 1882; retired from active service. 
March 15, 1SS3. He is at present a resident of Delavan, 111. 



3O4 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

CHARLES H. CHACE. 

First Lieutenant Charles H. Chace was born in the city of Fall 
River, Mass., Nov. 14, 1836. He received his education in the public 
schools of his native city, and at the age of fourteen left the High School 
and entered the office of the treasurer of the Fall River Railroad, which 
connected at South Braintree with the Old Colony Railroad, and at Fall 
River with the Bay State Steamboat Company, now called the Old Colony 
System. Mr. Chace remained there about five years, checking all freight 
from Boston and New York, and also all freight forwarded from those 
cities through Fall River, without the loss of a single pound. He re- 
moved in i860 to Troy, Penn., and was employed in the office of a large 
wholesale and retail store. He was thus engaged at the breaking out of 
the Rebellion. One day when the enthusiasm for enlisting was at its 
height, Mr. Chace, after repeated solicitations, closed his books and left 
his office about ten o'clock in the morning, took a buggy, and at six 
o'clock in the afternoon of that day had enrolled one hundred and four 
men, and immediately proceeded with his company to Harrisburg, Penn., 
and went into camp. Captain Tarbutton, of the regular army, was in 
command of the camp. Mr. Chace spent two days in organizing his 
company, and, at the expiration of that time, it was attached to the One 
Hundred and Thirty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers, Colonel Oakland 
commanding. Mr. Chace was appointed captain and assigned to Com- 
pany D of that regiment, for nine months' service. The regiment was 
ordered to the Army of the Potomac, and formed a portion of that splen- 
did body of men known as the " Second Corps," commanded by Gen. E. 
V. Sumner, and subsequently by that " superb soldier," General Hancock, 
who, when asked after a severe engagement, "Where is the Second 
Corps, now?" replied : " In Heaven, the most of them! " The regiment, 
by the request of General Sumner, continued for a time in service after 
the expiration of its term. During its nine months' service the regiment 
performed its full share of hard marching, arduous picket duty, and 
severe fighting, as attested by the inscription on its colors of South 
Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, and Chancellorsville. 

On his return to Providence, Captain Chace was again desirous of 
serving his country, and made application to Governor Smith for an ap- 
pointment in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, and, after 
passing a successful examination before General Casey's examining 
board at Washington, was commissioned first lieutenant and assigned to 
Company A of the Fourteenth. During the greater portion of his term 
of service with this regiment he was engaged in staff duty, holding the 
positions respectively of acting assistant inspector general and ordnance 
officer at Fort Esperanza, Fort Jackson, Fort St. Philip, and at Brashear 
City. While a member of General Cameron's staff he initiated the 
arrangements whereby the Confederate Captain Vinson with his com- 
mand, operating in that department, surrendered to the Union forces. 




LIEUT. JAMES P. BROWN 



HEAVY ARTILLERY I I)). 305 

Captains Vinson and Chase remained firm friends until the death of the 
former, which occurred several yeai Vnison Ci: 

After his return from the army Captain Chace wai r for B! B. 

& R. Knight for nearly fifteen years, ami at present is the credit man for 
the Flint Company, of Providence, R. I. 



ALFRED II. BARKER, Jr. 

First Lieutenant Alfred II. Barker, Jr., son of Alfred II. and 
Mary L. Barker, was horn in Providence, R. I., Oct. 20, 1844. He comes 
of sturdy stock. His father, whose name he bore, is still living in 
dence, at the advanced age of eighty years, although no one would imag- 
ine, by his upright and erect carriage, and his ruddy, youthful teal 
but that he was a man of middle age. Alfred, the subject of our sketch, 
attended the public schools of his native city in his youth. After leav- 
ing school he was employed for awhile as bookkeeper for Barker & Lee, 
carpenters and contractors, his father being a member of the firm. 
He was engaged in this occupation until the War of the Rebellion, 
when he entered the service of his country as private In Companv I), 
Tenth Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1862. His company occupied 
Fort De Russey, in the Defences of Washington, D. C. He returned 
home with his regiment on the expiration of its term of service, an 
after re-enlisted as a private in Company I, Eleventh Rhode Island 
Infantry, serving with credit and returning home at the expiration of his 
term of service, in July, 1S63. In the fall of that year he appeared before 
the Examining Board in Washington, and received a commission ■ 
lieutenant in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. He origi- 
nally served in Company I, but was subsequently transferred to Company 
C, by order dated Dec. 6, 1S63. On the 5th of July, 1864, he was ap- 
pointed boarding officer at Fort Jackson, La. His duty required him to 
keep a boat's crew constantly on the lookout, and every steamer and sail- 
ing craft was signalled to heave to by firing a blank cartridge from the 
fort. A solid shot across the bow of the vessel was sufficient to cause the 
steam to be shut off at once, thus permitting the boarding officer to 
approach. It was an honorable position, requiring good judgment and 
discrimination, and these duties he fulfilled to the satisfaction of hi- com- 
manding officers. He was mustered out with his regiment 0< 

Soon after returning home he attended a course of instruction in Bryant 
& Stratton's Business College. He afterward* entered the employ of the 
Union Railroad Company, as a conductor, and was thus engag 
many years, until failing health compelled him to retire from that 
pation, and after a lingering illness of disease contracted during bis army 
service, he died May 2, 1SS3. 

He joined Prescott Post, No. 1, July 26, 1S67. He afterwards connected 
himself with Slocum Post, with which post he was identified at the time 
of his decease. 



306 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

ZEPHANIAH BROWN. 

First Lieutenant Zephaniah Brown was born in Providence, R. I., 
Jan. 17, 1844. He attended the public schools of that city in his youth, 
and entered Brown University in 1861, but did not complete his full 
course. He enlisted as a private in Company K, Tenth Rhode Island 
Infantry, May 26, 1862. He was subsequently promoted corporal. His 
company was stationed at Fort Pennsylvania, within the Defences of 
Washington, where the regimental headquarters were also located. He 
was mustered out with his regiment at the expiration of his term of ser- 
vice, Sept. 1, 1S62. 

He received an appointment from the President of the United States as 
first lieutenant in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, and was 
assigned to Company D. He was re-mustered to date Oct. 24, 1863. He 
was detailed as acting adjutant of the First Battalion, and so borne until 
Tune, 1, 1S65, date of resignation. On the 26th of May, 1S64, he was or- 
dered on detached service as acting regimental adjutant; June, 1864, 
acting assistant quartermaster. Borne as battalion and post adjutant 
from July 30, 1864, until December, 1S64. Ordered on detached service as 
acting assistant adjutant-general, Dec. 25, 1864. Resigned June 1, 1S65. 

In September, 1S65, he went to Cincinnati and engaged in the oil busi- 
ness, and later in the cotton and commission business. He returned to 
Providence in July, 1SS3. 



CHARLES H. ALDRICH. 

First Lieutenant Charles H. Aldrich was born in the village of 
Kingston, town of South Kingstown, R. I., March 17, 1835. He was 
the eldest son of Deacon Luke Aldrich. He received his early edu- 
cation in the schools of his native village. In 1856 he became engaged 
in the jewelry business in Attleboro, Mass., removing a year or two later 
to Providence, where he engaged in the same business. 

At the beginning of the war he enlisted and was mustered as a sergeant 
in Company C, Third Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Aug. 22, 1S61. He 
was promoted to first sergeant Nov. 20, 1S62, and to second lieutenant to 
date from Nov. 28, 1S62. He was assigned to duty in Company B, Feb. 
21, 1S63. He participated with his regiment in its campaigns and battles 
until his resignation, May 2, 1863. 

He passed the Board of Examiners in Washington, D. C, as first lieu- 
tenant, and was assigned to Company G, Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy 
Artillery. He was commissioned by the President Dec. iS, 1S63, and was 
mustered in to date from Nov. 4, 1S63. On the 27th of March, 1S64, he 
was ordered on detached service as acting battalion adjutant, and contin- 
ued in that capacity until July, 1864. He was borne on special duty as 
battalion and post quartermaster from Nov. 19, 1864, until January, 1865 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 307 

Lieutenant Aldricli was in command of the picket guard on the B 
Plaquemine, when the Confederates under Captain McAnnelly mi 

attack on Plaquemine on the morning of A Although the 

cavalry vidette and inner infantry picket (colored) were captured, 
tenant Aid rich with his reserve picket guard succeeded in making his 
escape. As has already been Stated in preceding pages, three of our col- 
ored men who were captured were taken a few miles into the interior and 
inhumanly murdered. 

Lieutenant Aldrich served with his regiment until mustered out of ser- 
vice Oct. 2, 1865. On his return to Rhode Island he engaged In the 
marble business in Providence, R. I., where he continued for 
years, when he removed to Kingston, R. I., and still pursued the same 
business in that place. In 1S77 he was appointed clerk of the Court of 
Common Pleas of Washington County. He was also clerk of the Supreme 
Court of that county, and held both offices at the time of his decease, Aug. 
6, 1SS6. His death was undoubtedly hastened by injuries received from 
the premature discharge of a cannon while firing a salute on the fourth of 
July several years previous. He was identified with the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows, being a past grand of Columbia Lodge, Wakefield, 
R. I. He filled numerous public offices in his town with ability, and was 
a highly esteemed member of the Congregational Church. 



C HENRY BARNEY. 

First Lieutenant C. Henry Barney was bom in Providence, R. I , 
Jan. 10, 1S44. His education was obtained in the public schools of his 
native city, and he graduated from the Providence High School at the 
age of fifteen years. 

At the breaking out of the Rebellion he became imbued with the mar- 
tial spirit of the times, and, although but a lad of seventeen, was desirous 
of enrolling himself in the ranks of the Union Army. Two attempts al 
enlistment were frustrated by a failure to obtain the consent of his parents, 
who believed him too young to endure the hardships of army life. At 
the third attempt, however, he succeeded in overcoming their scruples, 
and enlisted Dec. 14, 1S61 (not 1863, as stated in the Roster), as a private 
in Company A, Fifth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. With his regiment 
he participated in the battles of the Burnside Expedition, Roanoke 1 
New Peine, and the siege of Fort Macon, and subsequently in the 
tions under General Foster in North Carolina, and the 
Rahl's Mills, Kinston, Whitehall, Goldsboro, Batcheller's Creek, and 
Little Washington. Meanwhile he had risen through the grades of cor- 
poral and sergeant, and, in August, 1863, was acting as Brsl sergeant of 
his company, when he was simultaneously offered the position of - 
lieutenant in his own regiment and in the Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery (Colored). He accepted the latter, and. upon examina- 



308 FOURTEENTH RHODE island 

tion before General Casey's Board was promoted to first lieutenant, re- 
ceiving an appointment as such from the President of the United States. 
He was temporarily assigned to the command of Company K, and subse- 
quently transferred to Company F. Soon after he was detailed as adju- 
tant of the Second Battalion, and with his regiment was transferred to the 
Department of the Gulf, in January, 1S64, serving in various localities in 
Louisiana until his final muster-out in October, 1S65. While in Louisiana 
he was detailed as post adjutant at Plaquemine and Donaldsonville, and 
served in several other staff positions for a short time. 

After muster-out he engaged in mercantile pursuits in Providence, R. I., 
and was subsequently elected treasurer of the Providence Gas Burner 
Company, which position he held until the advent of the telephone as a 
business enterprise, when he resigned and became general manager of a 
telephone company, of which Ex-Governor Henry Howard, of Rhode 
Island, was president. 

In 1874 ne joined the First Light Infantry Regiment of Providence, be- 
coming its adjutant and also secretary and treasurer in its civil organiza- 
tion. He remained with this regiment until 1878, when he was elected 
by the legislature to the position of adjutant-general of the State of 
Rhode Island, which office he retained until his resignation, Jan. 1, 18S2, 
by reason of removal from the State. During his term of office as adju- 
tant-general, he was largely instrumental in re-organizing the militia of 
Rhode Island, securing the passage of an entirely new law, thoroughly 
uniforming and equipping the troops and inaugurating a system ot 
annual encampments which has made the militia of that State second to 
none in the Union. While adjutant-general he acted as chief marshal at 
the funeral of General Burnside, the largest military funeral ever held in 
Rhode Island. 

In 18S1 he was chosen to represent his ward in the City Council of 
Providence, but resigned this position also upon removal from the city. 
In December, 1SS1, while holding the position of general manager of the 
Interstate Telephone Company, operating in Massachusetts and Rhode 
Island, he was offered the charge of the telephone company controlling 
the State of New Jersey. This he accepted, and removed with his family 
to New Jersey, of which State he has since been a resident. 

As General Barney's active participation in the Grand Army of the 
Republic ended with his removal from Rhode Island, it may be well to 
mention it before going further. In September, 1S67, he joined Prescott 
Post, No. 1, Department of Rhode Island, Grand Army of the Republic. 
Subsequently he held the positions of post adjutant and assistant adjutant- 
general of the department, serving several terms in each capacity. In 
1S77 he was elected commander of Prescott Post, and served one year, 
declining re-election. During his term as post commander the National 
Encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic and the Society of the 
Army of the Potomac both met in Providence, and he was a prominent 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 309 

and zealous worker on the committee which entertained them, presiding 

at the mammoth camp-tire which was given in Howard Hall In honor of 

those organizations. He served several successive terms as the me 

of the National Council of Administration, Grand Army of the Republic 

for Rhode Island, and as aid-de-camp on the staff ol 

commanders. 

As a citizen of New Jersey, he has devoted him to private 

business, with the exception that in iSSj he was nominated hv Gov. Leon 
Abbett, although of the opposite political party, and Commissioi 
President Arthur as the commissioner to represent N v ferae) at the 
World's Exposition in New Orleans. Before the close Ol the Exp 
he was made a member of its board of management. 

Although General Barney has interested himself in various branches 
of the electrical business, notably the manufacture of incandescent lamps 
and the application of storage batteries to the propulsion of pleasure 
launches, he has never entirely severed his connection with the telephone, 
and is at present devoting himself actively to the interests of th< 
York Telephone Company, which controls the field in and aroun 
York City. 

He is still a comrade of the Grand Army Post of Hackenaack, N.J . 
where he resides; is a companion of the New York Commandery of the 
Loval Legion, and a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity ol 
New Jersey. 



WILLIAM II. CHENERY. 

First Lieutenant William II. Ciikm.rv was born in Uzbrldge, 
Mass., Sept. 7, 1S42. He is the son of Elihu and Fanny (Mellen) 
Chenerv. His paternal ancestor, Lambert Chenerv, came to this country 
in 1630; first settled in Watertown, Mass., and afterwards removed to 
Dedham, where he was among the first settlers. Lambert's son Isaac was 
one of the first settlers of Medfield, Mass., about 1051. When the Indians 
attacked the town, Feb. 21, 1675, in King Philip's War, he with his family 
narrowly escaped being killed by the Indians. 1 Lieutenant Chenery'l 
grandmother, Lucretia (Smith) Chenery (wife of Captain Seth'- |, was •> 



• His brother, John Chenery, was a member ot Captain Beers's company of W.itcrtown. 
and was mortally wounded in a battle with the Indiana at Northtield, Sept. |, I 

- Capt. Seth Chenery commanded the Medfield military in isjo. ( >: 
rive entered the Union Army, namely: Frank A. Chenery, private in the Thirl 
Massachusetts Infantry; his brother, James 1>. Chenery, corporal in the Fifteenth Malta- 
Chusetts Infantry; John B. Chenery, private in the Thiily-thii " 
George II. Chenery, commissary sergeant Second Rhode Island Infantr. 
Chenerv, sergeant Fifth Rhode' Island Heavy Artillery, and first lieuten. 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. Three were killed in battle: Frank A., killed 
Harbor; James P., and John B., killed at Gettysburg; while George H.. and his brother, 
William H., returned from the service unharmed. 



3IO FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

descendant of Samuel Smith, whose mother was killed by the Indians, at 
this time, while fleeing to the garrison house with her infant (Samuel) in her 
arms. He was thrown in the air, and left for dead, but fortunately was 
uninjured. He married Elizabeth Adams, granddaughter of Lieut. Henry 
Adams (a kinsman of President John Adams), who was shot in the doorway 
of his house by the Indians on that fated morning, while rushing out to 
take command of his men. Lieutenant Chenery's great grandfather,. 
Capt. Ephraim Chenery, commanded a company of minute men in the 
Revolution, and started with his company on the Lexington alarm, but 
did not arrive in time to participate in the action. He afterwards served 
with his company at the siege of Boston, in Col. Joseph Read's regiment, 
and was stationed at Roxbury. Two of Captain Ephraim's brothers, 
Elihu and Simeon, also served in the war. 

On the maternal side Lieutenant Chenery is eighth in descent from 
Richard Mellen, who arrived in America in 1642. His son Simon and 
grandson Thomas were among the first comers to Framingham, Mass., 
and settled on what was called " Mellen's Neck," in that town. Deacon 
Henry Mellen, son of Thomas, removed to Hopkinton and was one of 
the first settlers. His grandson, Prentiss Mellen, served as a Senator in 
Congress from Massachusetts, and was the first chief justice of the State 
of Maine. Deacon Henry Mellen's son, Captain Thomas Mellen, com- 
manded a troop of horse in the Colonial militia, and his commission, signed 
by Governor Shirley, and dated June 27, 1754, is in the possession of his 
great grandson, Lieutenant Chenery. Two sons of Captain Thomas, Colo- 
nel James and Major Thomas, served in the Revolution. Colonel James was 
a lieutenant-colonel in the Massachusetts troops of the Continental Line. 

Lieutenant Chenery received a common school education in the schools 
of his native town, and, at the age of fourteen, removed to Providence, 
and entered the printing-office of Knowles, Anthony & Co., and followed 
the occupation of a printer until his enlistment in the army. He enlisted 
as a private in Company D, Fifth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Dec. 
11, 1S61. He was promoted to corporal May 1, 1862; sergeant, June 
13, 1S63. He participated in the battles of Roanoke Island, New Berne, 
siege of Fort Macon, the battles of Rahl's Mills, Kinston, Whitehall, and 
Goldsboro, and the attack on New Berne, in March, 1S63. In August, 1S63, 
while stationed in Fort Totten, New Berne, he was ordered on detached 
service at the Draft Rendezvous, at New Haven, Conn. He was com- 
missioned second lieutenant in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Ar- 
tillery, Sept. 21, 1S63. He was subsequently ordered to appear before the 
Examining Board for officers of colored troops, in Washington, and, 
Dec. 15, 1S63, received an appointment as first lieutenant in the Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. On the 21st of December, 1S63, he 
was mustered into the service, and was assigned to Company F. Nov. 
25, 1S64, while serving temporarily in Company E, he was relieved from 
that duty and assigned to the command of Company G. On the 13th of 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). ;; i i 

March, 1865, he was temporarily aMlgned to the command of Company 

H, in the absence of Captain Addeman, who was on detach 

May i, 1865, he was relieved from duty with that company and .1 

to duty in Company E. On Sept. 27, 1865, he was 

duty with his company, F. Oct. 2, [865, lie was mustered out 

with his regiment. Oct. 5, 1S65, he was ordered to take ... 

Company E, and continued in that position until the final dUbandment 

of the regiment at Portsmouth Grove. R.I. 

On his return to Providence he resumed his occupation as a printer, 
which he has followed ever Blnce. He was for sevei 
the firm of Hammond, Angell & Co., printers, of Providence, R. I. He 
joined Prescott Post, No. 1, Grand Army of the Republic, June 2] 
He was elected officer of the day in 1873. When the National Encampment 
convened in Providence, in 1S77, he was detailed as officer of the guard 
during the sessions of that body. In 187S he was aid-de-camp on the 
staff of the department commander, and in 1SS1 was appointed an 
ant mustering officer. He has held the office of adjutant of his post since 
1S85. He is secretary and treasurer of the Fifth Rhode island Heavy 
Artillery Veteran Association, secretary of the Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery Veteran Association, recorder of Myrtle Lodge, s 
Ancient Order of United Workmen, and assistant recording secret 
Hope Lodge, No. 4, Independent Order of Odd Fellows. 



ROBERT S. GASKILL. 

First Lieutenant Robert S. Gaskii.i. was bom in Woonsocket. 
R. I., April 24, 1841. His great grandfather on his mother's side (Henry 
Wheeler), served in the War of the Revolution as a lieutenant, and aftei • 
wards as captain. 

Lieutenant Gaskill attended the public schools at Woonsocket, and 
subsequently at New Hampton, N. II. Most of his early life was 
on his father's farm. He entered the service as private of Company I), 
Fifth Rhode Island Volunteers, Nov. 23, [86l, but was shortly afterwards 
promoted to corporal and mustered in as such Dec. l6, 1 86 1, lb- partici- 
pated with his regiment in the battles of Roanoke bland, New I'.erne, 
siege of Fort Macon, Raid's Mill, Kins ton, Whitehall, Goldsboro, and 
first rebel attack on New Berne. March 14, 1S63. In [862 he wai 
moted to sergeant. In the summer of 1S63 he was ordered with 
William W. Douglas and two other sergeants on recruiting 
Providence, R. I. As a draft had been ordered they were unable I 
ceed with recruiting at that time, and were ordered on duty at th( 
Barracks in that city, guarding the drafted men and substitutes. Lieu- 
tenant Gaskill had charge of the first detachment of these men that 
was sent to the United States Draft Rendezvous at New Haven. Conn. 



312 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

There were fifty-four of these substitutes, and they were composed of 
some of the worst element in our northern cities. Lieutenant Gaskill's 
duties in this instance were by no means pleasant or agreeable. Out 
of the fifty-four men he succeeded in delivering at the Draft Rendezvous 
forty-seven. 

Lieutenant Gaskill was engaged in this service at Providence until 
Dec. 22, 1S63, when he was discharged to accept promotion in the Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery (Colored). He was assigned to 
Company H, and mustered in Dec. 31, 1S63. On the 24th of May, 1864, 
he was ordered on detached service as officer of the provost guard in Pla- 
quemine, La., and so borne until August, 1864. On the 14th of Septem- 
ber, 1864, he was appointed provost marshal of the Parish of Iberville, La., 
and so borne until November, 1S64. He was mustered out with his regi- 
ment Oct. 2, 1865. 

After the close of the war Lieutenant Gaskill spent nearly twenty years 
in the West, where he was engaged in the grain business. He afterwards 
removed to Woonsocket, R. I., and has pursued the business of general 
insurance agent since that time. 



CHARLES S. BROOKS. 

First Lieutenant Charles S. Brooks was born in Charlestown, 
Mass., Aug. 26, 1S39. His great grandfather was a soldier of the Revo- 
lution, being one of Col. Ethan Allen's Green Mountain boys. His 
grandfather fought in the War of 1S12. The subject of our sketch 
attended the grammar and high schools of his native place. In the War 
of the Rebellion he enlist'ed as a private in Company B, Fourth Ver- 
mont Infantry, Aug. 17, 1861. He was promoted to hospital steward of 
his regiment in January, 1862. He was appointed hospital steward of 
the Second Division, Sixth Corps, Nov. 3, 1862, and attached to Gen. 
A. P. Howe's headquarters. 

Having passed a satisfactory examination before General Casey's 
Board of Examiners at Washington, D. C, he was commissioned first 
lieutenant of the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Dec. 24, 
1863, and assigned to Company H. Mustered in Jan. 15, 1S64, borne as 
acting battalion quartermaster from March 27, 1S64, until July, 1864. On 
the 23d of September, 1864, he was ordered on detached service as pass 
officer at post headquarters, and so borne until Oct. 31, 1864. Appointed 
provost marshal of St. Bernard Parish, La., Oct. 31, 1S64, and so borne 
until September, 1865. He was mustered out of service with his regiment 
Oct. 2, 1865. On his return North he was engaged in mercantile busi- 
ness until 1SS1, since which time he has been in appointment under 
government as inspector in the office of the Surveyor of Customs at the 
port of New York. 




LIEUT. MARTIN S. s\HTII 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 

CHARLES W. MUNROE. 

First Lieutenant Charles W. Munroe was horn in Clai 
Nova Scotia, in 1S36. His great grand tat her was a colonel in the British 
army. Charles attended the public schools of his native town until he 
came to Rhode Island. He attended the Friend*' School, al Providence, 
R. I., for awhile, and then the East Greenwich Academy. He 
quentlv attended a college at Hartford, Conn. 

At the breaking out of the Rebellion he enlisted as a private in Com- 
pany C, Fourth Rhode Island Infantry, Sept. 5, 1861 j promoted to first 
sergeant Sept. 25, 1S61 ; promoted to second lieutenant and trail 
to Company G, Oct. 11, 1S61 ; first lieutenant Nov. ao, l86l j n 
Aug. 11, 1S62. Commissioned as first lieutenant in the Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Feb. 23, 1S64; originally assigned to 
Company M, and mustered in March S, 1864; transferred to Comp.inv K. 
April 16, 1864; on general court-martial in May, 1864; in command of his 
company from March, 1S64, to August, 1864, and from Ocl 
to January, 1865; mustered out of service with his regiment Oct. 1 

After the war he attended the Law School at Albany, N. V.. and then 
went West, where he engaged in the practice of law. He died several 
years ago. The date of his death we have been unable to obtain. 



GEORGE W. II. ALLHN. 

First Lieutenant George W. II. Allen was born in Scituate, R. I . 

May 25, 1S42. His father, Rev. Reuben Allen, was a Free Will Baptist 
clergyman. He was widely known in his denomination as a BUD 
organizer of churches, and held at various times charges in New Hamp- 
shire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and in several towns in Rhode Island. 
He was the pastor of the North Scituate Church for nearly twenty years. 
His son, George W. H. Allen, was educated in the district schools of 
Scituate, and at Smithville Seminary, afterwards known as Lapham In- 
stitute, which he entered at the age of thirteen, and from which he gradu- 
ated in the autumn of 1S57. Soon after leaving the seminary he entered 
the employ of his brothers, who were manufacturers of jewelry in Provi- 
dence. He continued with them until the spring of 1S61, when he re- 
turned to his father's home at Scituate, and remained there until the 
following September, when he enlisted as a private in Battery E, First 
Rhode Island Light Artillery, Sept. 30, 1S61. He was promoted to cor- 
poral Nov. iS, 1S61. July 1, 1S62, he was complimented by Captain 
Randolph for meritorious conduct at the battle of Charles City Cross 
Roads the day before, and, at the same time, he was advanced to gunner 
of the fifth piece, and served in that capacity at the battles of Malvern 
Hill, Harrison's Landing, Second Bull Run, and Chantilly. Nov. 21. 



3 H FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

1S62, he was promoted to sergeant, and as such served with distinction at 
the battles of Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Kelly's Ford. 
Payne's Farm, and Mine Run. He was well informed in relation to bat- 
tery drill and movements, and, having a remarkable memory, he seldom 
hesitated as to the move to make in the execution of an order. He was 
wounded slightly at Gettysburg, Pa., July 2, 1S63; re-enlisted December 
nth, and mustered as a veteran Dec. n, 1863. 

He received permission to appear before Casey's Board in Washington 
Feb. 4, 1S64, passed as a captain, and was to have been assigned to some 
regiment not from Rhode Island. Preferring to serve his native State, 
and there being no vacancy in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Ar- 
tillery as captain, he accepted a first lieutenant's commission in that regi- 
ment, and was mustered March 23, 1S64, and assigned to Company L. 

On the 3d of April, 1864, Lieutenant Allen, with the Third Battalion 
under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Viall, proceeded to Camp 
Parapet, La. Soon after the arrival of the battalion, he was detailed as 
acting aid-de-camp at post headquarters. He was afterwards ordered on 
special duty as actidg adjutant of the Third Battalion. He was detached 
as acting assistant adjutant-general of the District of Carrollton from 
Feb. 20, 1865, to May 7, 1865. On the 1st of July, 1S65, he was ordered 
to Columbus, Miss., in charge of the remaining portion of the Sixteenth 
Indiana, to be sent on transports up the river and consolidated with the 
Third Indiana. He returned July 12th, and on the 29th was detailed as 
a member of general court-martial, Department of Louisiana and Texas, 
from which he was relieved Sept. 6, 1S65, to be mustered out of service 
with his regiment, which occurred Oct. 2, 1865. 

Soon after his return to Rhode Island he entered the employ of the 
Gorham Manufacturing Company, in Providence, R. I., remaining there 
about one year. He then went to Waltham, Mass., and was there em- 
ployed in the Waltham Watch Factory for about six j-ears, and then 
returned to Providence and began business for himself as an engine 
turner, in which business he continued until his death, which took place 
Sept. 2, 1S95. 

Lieutenant Allen was at one time a member of a lodge of the Independ- 
ent Order of Odd Fellows in Waltham, Mass., and had held the office of 
past grand in that order. He was one of the charter members of Rhode 
Island Council in the Order of United Friends, and was a past grand 
councillor and a member of the Imperial Council of that order. He was 
also a charter member of Burnside Council. He was for two years dep- 
uty of Tecumseh Council. He was also connected with Slocum Post, 
No. 10, Grand Army of the Republic, and the Rhode Island Light Artil- 
lery Veteran Association. He had been busily engaged on an invention 
of his own, and it was thought his labor in this employment brought on 
the attack that caused his death. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). JI5 

WARREN RALPH. 

First Lieutenant Warren Ralph was born in Scituate, R. I .. 

April 9, 1S4J. lie attended the public schools of his native town in his 
youth, and was employed as a clerk at the breaking out of the Rebellion. 

He entered the service as sergeant in Company A. Second Rhode 
Island Infantry, June 5, 1861, and participated with hia regimen I In the 
battles of Bull Run, Siege of York town, Williamsburg, 
Hanover Court House, Seven Pines, Mechanlcsville, Malvern 11: 
Antietam, Fredericksburg, Marye's Heights, Salem Heights, and G 
burg. Lieutenant Ralph, immediately after bis examination before the 
board at Washington, received an appointment as first lieutenant in the 
Forty-fifth United States Colored Infantry, and was ordered to report to 
the commanding officer of that regiment at Parkersburg, West Virginia, 
but declined to accept the appointment. He was honorably dist i 
April 4, 1S64, to accept a commission as first lieutenant in the Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. He was assigned to Company M. 
He was mustered in April S, 1S64. Borne as detached and serving in 
Chicago Mercantile Battery from June 25, 1S64, until July 5, 1*04. Com- 
manded Company M from July 15, 1S64, until he was mustered out with 
his regiment Oct. 2, 1S65. 

On his return to Rhode Island he engaged in the grocery business in 
Providence, R. I., in company with Lieut. Albert W. Delnah, but 
the present time employed as a salesman for A. B. McCrillis & Co., in 
Providence, R. I. He is a member of the Second Rhode Island Veteran 
Association. 



ALLEN F. CAMERON. 

First Lieutenant Allen F. Cameron was born in Quebec 
ada, Feb. 21, 1S36. He is of Scotch parentage, his father being pay and 
color-sergeant of the Seventy-ninth Highlanders for sixteen years. .\s 
his regiment was about to return to Scotland he bought his discharge 
from the army and removed to the United States with his family. I. 1 
tenant Cameron had three brothers, all of whom served in the Union army 
during the Rebellion: Alexander serving in the Fourth Massachusetts 
Infantry, Walter in the Third Rhode Island Cavalry, and Joseph in the 
Second Massachusetts Heavy Artillery. Comrade Cameron's father died 
when he was quite young, consequently he was compelled to go to work 
at an early age. He attended the Federal Street Primary School in 
dence, and afterwards the Fountain Street Grammar School. On leaving 
school he was employed in the Woonasquatucket Print Works, then in 
the Providence Bleaching and Dyeing Company's works, and 
quently went to Mansfield, Mass., to learn the machinists' trade. When 
he entered the service he was an overseer in a weave room in Rockland. 
R. I. 



3 16 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

He was enrolled as sergeant of Company A, Fifth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery, Oct. 28, 1S61 ; mustered Dec. 16, 1S61 ; promoted to 
first sergeant Oct. 28, 1S63. He participated in the Burnside Expedi- 
tion and in the several engagements in which his regiment took part, 
until he was commissioned first lieutenant in the Fourteenth Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery, and assigned to Company I. We find him 
serving on a general court-martial Nov. 5, 1S64, and acting as aid-de- 
camp at post headquarters June 6, 1S65. He was mustered out of service 
Oct. 2, 1S65. 

On his retirement from the army he returned to Rockland and resumed 
the occupation he had left. Here he remained one year, and then went 
to work in the United States Armory at Springfield, Mass. At the time 
the Henry-Martini rifles were made by the Providence Tool Company he 
was appointed a sub-United States inspector, and assisted in the inspec- 
tion of seven hundred thousand rifles. He then went to Springfield, 
Mass., and took in five thousand navy revolvers for the Turkish govern- 
ment. He is now employed by the Winchester Revolver Arms Company 
of New Haven, Conn. 

Lieutenant Cameron is a member of Admiral Foote Post, Grand Army 
of the Republic, and General Alfred Terry Union Veterans Union. He 
is also a member of A. F. & A. M., of Clayville, R. I. 



CHARLES H. POTTER. 

First Lieutenant Charles H. Potter was born in Providence, 
R. I., Jan 4, 1828. He is descended from sturdy Rhode Island stock. His 
grandfather was an ensign in the Rhode Island troops, and served at the 
siege of Boston. His father, Roger Williams Potter, was one of the orig- 
inal charter members of the First Light Infantry in 1818. He was high 
sheriff of Providence County for forty-five years. Lieutenant Potter 
early connected himself with the volunteer fire department of the city of 
Providence, and held the position of captain of the Pioneer Fire Com- 
pany at the time of its disbandment. At the age of fourteen he joined a 
military company and served for eight days in what is known as the Dorr 
War. He was a member of the Providence Horse Guards in 1843. En- 
listed in Capt. Joseph S. Pitman's company for the Mexican War, but not 
obtaining the consent of his parents was reluctantly compelled to remain 
at home. In 1853 he joined the First Light Infantry Company. In 1854 
he received a commission as captain of Company F, Guards of Liberty. 
This company was afterwards merged into the Mechanics Rifles, of 
which the lamented Col. John S. Slocum was commandant. When 
Sumter was fired upon he responded to the first call for troops, and 
was enrolled as a private in Company C, First Rhode Island Detached 
Militia, and participated in the battle of Bull Run. He afterwards 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 317 

re-enlisted as sergeant of Company G, Twelfth R ! 

Sept. 29, 1S62 ; promote nt-raajor Nov. 

promoted to second lieutenant for gallant conduct at the battle ol 
ericksburg, Va., and mustered in as such Dec. 22. r86a, and was mu 
out July 29, 1S63; commissioned first lieutenant in the Fourteenth ! 
Island Heavy Artillery, and was subsequently ordered before tl 
ing Board at Washington, D. C, and passed as a second lieutenant; 
commissioned Nov. 6, igned to Company D : re-mustered I 

Sept. 22. 1863; on detached service In New Orleans, La., January] 1864, and 
so borne until March, 1864; commissioned first lieutenant |an. jf>, 1865, 
and transferred to Company 15. He was mustered out ()«•. . 
Since the war he has been engaged in the furnace and steam beating busi- 
ness, principally in Boston. 



GEORGE W. WEEDEN. 

First Lieutenant George W. Wkeihcn was born In 
R. I., Nov. 5, 1S24. He is descended from Revolutionary an 
He attended the private schools of that city in his youth. Alter leaving 
school he was employed as a dry goods clerk in Newport, and afterwards 
in Providence. At the age of fifteen he shipped for Liverpool as boy, 
and followed the sea until the first gun was fired on Sumter, when he left 
the ship (Ocean Rover), ol which he was chief mate, went to B 
R. I., and was offered a commission as first lieutenant in Company G, 
Second Rhode Island Infantry, which he accepted, and was mustered in 
June 6, 1S61. He was promoted to captain and transferred to Company F, 
July 22, 1861. He resigned Oct. 1, 1S61, to accept appointment li- 
ter's mate in the navy, and was ordered to Washington to learn greal gun 
exercises. Three months afterwards he was ordered to New York as act- 
ing master on recruiting service for the mortar flotilla under Porter. Ik- 
was subsequently detailed to the gunboat Octorora (Porter's flagship) ; 
had a brush with the rebel ram Mtrrimac at Hampton Roads, and then 
proceeded to New Orleans, where his vessel was a part of Farragufs Bed 
at Vicksburg. The vessel was afterwards ordered to Baltimore for repairs, 
and where Lieutenant Weeden resigned, Aug. 5, 1862, (and not 1 
stated in the Roster). He afterwards enlisted as sergeant ol the Hos- 
pital Guards at Portsmouth Grove, R. I., Nov. 13, 186a : mustered 1 
1S62; promoted to first sergeant March 1, 1S63; discharged l> 
to accept commission as second lieutenant Fourteenth Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery, which was dated Nov. 7, 18635 assigned to Company C: 
re-mustered to date Oct. 11, 1S63; appointed acting battalion qu 
master First Battalion Dec. 7, 1S63, and so borne until April ::. 
when detached as acting assistant quartermaster at Pass Cavallo, 
and so borne until relieved July 1, 1S64. He was borne as battalion 



3 l8 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

quartermaster and post commissary from July 3, 1S64, until Feb. 8, 1865; 
promoted to first lieutenant May 11, 1865; borne as battalion adjutant 
from June 6, 1865, until Sept. 16, 1865; mustered out Oct. 2, 1865. 

Since the close of the war he has been engaged as purser on the New 
York Line, messenger for Adams Express Company, etc. He joined 
Prescott Post No. 1, Grand Army of the Republic, Sept. 27, 1867. He 
afterwards joined Slocum Post No. 10, Sept. 3, 18S4. 

Lieutenant Weeden has a son, George William Weeden, Jr., a mem- 
ber of the Seventy-first Regiment, New York Volunteers, who partici- 
pated in the battle of San Juan, in Cuba, July 1, 1898. 



CHARLES L. STAFFORD. 

First Lieutenant Charles L. Stafford was born in Providence, 
R. I., June 10, 1842. He is the son of Robert R. and Anne F. (Holden) 
Stafford, and is descended from the early settlers of the State, several of 
them being active in the early history of the country, both on land and 
sea. 

Lieutenant Stafford, the subject of our sketch, was educated in the pri- 
vate and public schools of Providence, R. I., and graduated from the 
High School in April, 1862. At the call for three months' troops, in the 
spring of 1862, he enlisted and was mustered in as sergeant of Company 
B, Tenth Rhode Island Infantry, May 26, 1S62. He was chief of a mess 
of sixteen young men, composed of Providence High School students. 
His company performed garrison duty in the Defences of Washington, 
D. C, and was stationed for the greater portion of the time in Fort Penn- 
sylvania, and drilled in heavy artillery tactics. He was mustered out 
with his regiment Sept. 1, 1S62. 

In the fall of 1862 he was on guard duty for two weeks at Lovell Gen- 
eral Hospital, Portsmouth Grove, R. I. In June, 1863, commenced re- 
cruiting for the Thirteenth Rhode Island Volunteers, then organizing on 
the Dexter Training Ground, and was to have received a commission in 
the regiment. An order was subsequently received from Washington to 
discharge all six months' troops, and the Thirteenth Regiment was dis- 
banded. He afterwards appeared before the Examining Board at Wash- 
ington, D. C, and received an appointment as second lieutenant in the 
Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Nov. 15, 1863, and mustered 
in same date. He was assigned to Company B. He served with his 
company on Matagorda Island, Texas, and in the spring of 1S64 had 
charge of the sick at Pass Cavallo. While his battalion was stationed at 
Fort Jackson, he for a long time acted as boarding officer, and his duty 
was to examine the papers of the captains of all vessels passing up the 
Mississippi River. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 3 19 

In May, 1S65, lie was detailed as permanent picket at Rayon Ran 
near Brashear City (now Morgan City), and remained there until I 
promoted to first lieutenant, May 11. [865, and v.. •,, the 

Third Battalion stationed at Camp Parapet, La . and 1 Com- 

pany I. July 6, 1S65, he was detailed to the temporary command ot" 
Company M; anil August 31st in command of Companv I 
Banks, La., during the temporary absence of Captain Spink. 
iS65, ne was ordered to take command of Company B, and on < 
1865, was mustered out with his regiment. 

Since the war he has been engaged in the cotton business. %\ 
later in the drug business, lie joined Prescotl Post, So . 1 . 
of the Republic, May 10, 1S67, and afterwards became a charter member 
of Rodman Post, No. 12, and was tor two years commander of the : 



CHARLES P. GAY. 

Second Lieutenant Charles Payson Gay, ton ot Abner Gay, Jr., 

and Susan Adeline (Smith) Gay, was born in Providence, R. [., I 
[841. He is descended from old Puritan stock, being a lineal descendant 
of John Gay, who came to America about [630, and settled first at Water- 
town, Mass. He was admitted freeman May 6, 1635, and afterward- re- 
moved to Dedham, where he was one of the founders of the Planta 
his name appearing on a petition for incorporation Sept. 6, 1636. 
He was among the original proprietors of lands, and was one 
selectmen in 1654. He died March .(, toss. John Gay, great grand- 
father of Charles P., was born in Dedham, Mass., Feb. »5, 1730, and 
served during the Revolutionary War. He was lieutenant of Captain 
Joseph Guild's company, which marched from Dedham on the Lexington 
alarm, April 19, 1775. He served in Heath's Massachusetts regiment 
until January, 1776, when he entered the Continental Army as first lieu- 
tenant of the Twenty-fourth Continental Infantry. 

Susan Adeline (Smith) Gay, mother of Charles P. Gay, was the 
daughter of Benjamin and Frances (Fosdick) Smith, and was born in 
Providence, R. I., Nov. 29, 1S17, on Smith's Hill. Her home 9 
brick, house still standing on Davis Street. Her uncle, Col. Henrj 
Smith, built the Duncan House, which at that time, with the Davl 
house, were the only houses on the hill. She was a lineal descendant of 
John Smith "The Miller," who came to Providence with Roger Williams 
and four others in the spring of 1636, and made the fust settlement of 
white persons in this territory. Job Smith, the maternal g lather 

of Charles P. Gay, was born Sept. 24, 1736. He was a man ..1 ability, 
serving the colony both in a civil and military capacity. His commis- 
sion in the Artillery companv which was issued by the H 
Stephen Hopkins, Esq., Governor, Captain-General and Commander-in- 



320 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Chief of and over the English colony of Rhode Island and Providence 
Plantations in New England in America, and dated the ioth day of May, 
1759, and the thirty-second of His Most Sacred Majesty, George the 
Second, by the grace of God, King of Great Britain, etc., is still pre- 
served and is in the possession of Lieutenant Gay's brother, James Bacon 
Gay, of Providence, R. I. Job Smith married February, 1765, Ruth 
Harris, daughter of Henry Harris, who was a lineal descendant of 
Thomas Harris, 1st, one of the first settlers of Rhode Island, and Hope 
(Hopkins) Harris a lineal descendant of Thomas Hopkins, 1st, also one 
of the first settlers. Hope Harris was the sister of the renowned statesman 
and patriot Stephen Hopkins, one of the signers of the Declaration of 
Independence, also sister of Commodore Esek Hopkins, the organizer 
and first commander of the United States Navy. 

The maternal grandmother of Charles P. Gay, Frances (Fosdick) 
Smith, was daughter of Major Thomas and Mehitable (Hawkins) Fosdick, 
and was a lineal descendant of Stephen Fosdick, who was born in 
England in 1583. Stephen Fosdick came to America in 1635, and settled 
in Charlestown, Mass., where he died in 1664. Thomas Fosdick, the 
great grandfather of Charles P. Gay, was born in Boston, Dec. 28, 1756, 
and served through the greater portion of the War of the Revolution. 
He enlisted as a fifer in Capt. John Glover, Jr.'s company, of Col. John 
Glover's Massachusetts regiment, in 1775, and was promoted to the rank 
of ensign Aug. 1, 1775, and served in that regiment until January, 1776, 
when he entered the Continental service in the Fourteenth Continental 
Infantry. This regiment distinguished itself in the retreat from Long 
Island, and in the advance across the Delaware before the battle of Tren- 
ton. He was in the battle of Stillwater, and served as brigade major of 
artillery in Gen. John Glover's brigade in the campaign against Burgoyne 
in 1777, and in the subsequent operations of the army in New Jersey, 
Pennsylvania and Virginia, remaining in the service until very near the 
close of the war. 

Lieut. Charles P. Gay, the subject of our sketch, was educated in the 
public schools of Providence, and at the commencement of the Rebellion 
was a student in the High School. Early in 1S61 he joined the Burnside 
Zouaves, which at that time was an active military company (now the 
United Train of Artillery). He was an active member and participated 
in all the movements of those stirring times. At the call for troops in 
the Spring of 1862, he enlisted in Company H, Tenth Rhode Island 
Infantry, and was appointed sergeant, serving in that capacity from May 
26, 1S62, to Sept. 1, 1862, when he was honorably discharged. In the 
summer of 1863 he received an appointment as second lieutenant in the 
Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, and was commissioned Sept. 14, 
1863, reporting to Major Joseph J. Comstock, at Dutch Island, and was 
assigned to Company A. He was enrolled at Providence, R. I., Nov. 15, 
1S63, commissioned and re-mustered to date from Oct. 10, 1863. He 




LIEU I'. BENJAMIN D. [ONES 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 

served with the First Battalion during itl varying fortunes in Texas and 
Louisiana, until April 17, 1864, when i.e was I .juence 

of disability incurred while in the service. 

On his return from the army he was connected with the mat 
turing jewelry and silverware trade. lie married Miss Anna Stuart 
Ladd, Oct. 3, 1S66. She is the daughter of the late Samuel J. Ladd, of 
Providence, a well-known silversmith and a member of the old firm of 
Knowles & Ladd, now the J. B. & S. M. Knowles Company. 

Dr. Frederick Albert Gay, brother of Lieutenant Gay, enlisted in the 
Eleventh Rhode Island Infantry, and served honorably in thai 
until its muster out of service. He died Dec. 27, 1893. Lieutenant 
Charles P. Gay died May 10, 1897. 



DANIEL J. VI ALL. 

Second Lieutenant Daniel J. Viall, like his brother Gen. N 

Viall, is descended from old New England stock, his ancestor Job- 
being among the first settlers of Boston, in 1630, and afterwards rei 
to Rehoboth, yvhere he was a large landholder. His grandfather on the 
maternal side commanded a regiment of militia in the War of t8l3. 
Lieutenant Viall was born in Piainlield, Conn., Dec. 26,1831. His parents 
while he was still young removed to Rhode Island, and from thence to 
Massachusetts. His educational advantages were limited to a common 
school course; and, in the autumn of 1850, being then in his nin< 
year, he shipped on a whaling voyage in the ship Globty of N'e • 
ford, Mass., which vessel was wrecked on Cape East, Bering Stiaits, in 
August of the following year (1S51). The crew was re-cued by the 
barque Amadia, and transferred to the barque Wnlliby. ot Australia, and 
were again transferred to the ship Columbia, of Nantucket. When this 
vessel arrived at Oye, one of the Sandwich Islands, he shipped on 
the yvhaleship St. George, to cruise ami return home, which 
arrived at New Bedford in May, 1853. He again shipped M a 
mate in ship Christopher Mitchell, of Neyv Bedford, and mad 
ful voyage. The cruising grounds of the ship were as follows : Indian 
Ocean, North West Coast, Vancouver's Island, Alaska, Bering's 
Straits, Arctic Ocean, etc. The ship arrived home in June, 1^50, with 
oil, etc., valued at $96,000; his share being one seventy-fifth. He 
in August of the bame year (1S56), shipped as third mate in the 
vessel, but resigned in the autumn of 185S, to accept the position of 
second mate in the barcpae Prudent* of Greenport, N. Y., and made a 
short voyage on the coast of New Zealand, and arrived home in Max, 
1859. 



322 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

Lieutenant Viall enlisted in the Civil War as corporal in Company K, 
Ninth Rhode Island Infantry, May 25, 1862 ; mustered May 26, 1862 ; 
mustered out Sept. 2, 1862. He also enrolled as sergeant of Company K, 
Eleventh Rhode Island Infantry, Sept. 24, 1862; mustered Oct. 1, 1862; 
mustered out Julv 13, 1862. He was commissioned second lieutenant and 
assigned to Company B, Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Nov. 
10, 1863; re-mustered to date Sept. 14, 1863; detached as acting ordnance 
officer, Dec. iS, 1863; ordered to report to company from detached service, 
April 15, 1864; detached for the fortifications by order, dated May 30, 1864; 
detached by order for service in Chicago Mercantile Battery, from June 25, 
1864; borne as absent sick from Sept. S, 1864, until October, 1864; dis- 
charged on tender of resignation on account of ill health, by order dated 
Oct. 19, 1S64. It should also be stated that Lieutenant Viall, for' his 
efficiency in artillery practice, was detailed as instructor of all the non- 
commissioned officers of the several companies as they successivelj r 
arrived on Dutch Island. 

For some years after the close of the war, and until the autumn of 1882, 
he held position as an officer in the Rhode Island State Prison ; but, 
as the confinement to those duties impaired his health, he resigned the 
situation. He was afterwards an overseer in the Builders Iron Foundry 
of Providence, but on account of his health was compelled to relinquish 
that position, and has been night watchman in that foundry for many 
years. He is a member of Mount Vernon Lodge, No. 4, A. F. and 
A. M. 



EDWARD ABORN. 

Second Lieutenant Edward Aborn was born in Providence, R. I., 
March 28, 1828. He attended the public schools of Providence in his youth. 
His occupation prior to the war was that of a farmer. He was a member 
of the First Light Infantry. He entered the service in the War of the Re- 
bellion as a private in Company D, First Rhode Island Detached Militia, 
May 30, 1861, and was mustered in same date. He participated with 
his regiment in the battle of Bull Run, and was mustered out Aug. 2, 
1861. 

He received a commission as second lieutenant in the Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Oct. 2S, 1863, and was assigned to Com- 
pany D. He was mustered in Oct. 28, 1S63. In December, 1863, he was 
detached from Company D for service in Company C. Jan. 12, 1864, 
returned to company. He was borne as absent sick from Oct. 6, 1864, 
until January, 1865. He was honorably discharged for disability, Jan. 22, 
1865. At the close of the war he resumed his occupation as a farmer, and 
continued in that capacity until his death, which [-occurred March 29, 
1889. 



HEAVY ARTILL1 D). 

HERBERT I>. LEAV1 

Second Lieutenant Herbert D. Lravitt was bom In Mass., 

April 5, 1845. At the breaking out of the Rebellion : rithhU 

parents in Providence, R, I. lie enlisted as a prti 
Fifth Rhode Island Heaw Artillery, Nov. 1,1 [uently 

promoted to sergeant, and afterwards to : red to 

Company II, Jan. 10, 1S63. He participated with hit I in tin- 

battles ot Roanoke Island, New Berne, siege of Fort M ■ 
Rahl's Mill, Kinston, Whitehall, Goldsborn, siege of Lltl 
and first rebel attack on New Berne. He was hot tie on detache 
vice in Rhode Island and Connecticut, from A ;, until I> 

ber, 1S63. I lis set vice consisted in guarding substitutes and draft, 
at Fair Haven, Conn., and he was thus 1863, 

when, having passed a satisfactory examination before the Board oi 
airliners at Washington, D. C, he was honorably I from the 

Fifth to accept a commission as second lieutenant in the Four 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, and was assigned to Company E. He was 
mustered in Dec. 22, 1S63. He served with his regiment in I 
ment of the Gulf. From Oct. 22, 1S64, until January, [8651 he was borne 
on detached service as aid-de-camp on the staff of Maj.-t 
Hurlburt. He was mustered out with his regiment Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Soon after his return to Rhode Island he was appointed upon the police 
force of the citv of Providence, but remained in that position but a short 
time. He was for several years in the employ of the Union Railroad 
Company, and was subsequently engaged in business in Franklin. 
He then removed to Med way, Mass., and engaged in the market business. 
He afterwards became connected with the same line of business In B 
in Faneuil Hall Square, where he continued until failing health 
pelled him to relinquish an active part in business affairs. He was 
a member of U. S. Grant Post, Grand Army of the Republic, and V. 
ing Lodge, A. F. and A. M. He died Jan. 2-, 1S93. 



LESTER S. HILL 

Second Lieutenant Lester S. HlLL was horn in the town of Foster, 
R. I., Dec. 19, 1S43. His early youth was spent upon the farm, where In- 
worked for eight months of the year, attending the district school the 
winter term of four months. 

At the breaking out of the War of the Rebellion he became imbued with 
the martial spirit which pervaded the youth of the land, he laid his rake 
on the fence, hung his scythe in the old apple tree, and without waiting 
for his pay; and, although but a lad of seventeen, and not having attained 
the age required by law for entrance into army service, yet he represented 



324 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

to the recruiting officer that he was older, and enlisted as a private in Bat- 
tery E, First Rhode Island Light Artillery, Sept. 30, 1861. 

Lieutenant Hill participated with his battery in the Peninsular cam- 
paign under McClellan, his battery being engaged at the siege of York- 
town, the battles of Williamsburg, Fair Oaks, Seven Days battle in front 
of Richmond, White Oak Swamp and Malvern Hill. He also participated 
in the following engagements: Second Bull Run, Chantilly, Fredericks- 
burg, Chancellor6ville, Gettysburg, and Mine Run. On the night of the 
first day's battle of Second Buil Run, he carried a gun covering to Gen. 
Isaac I. Stevens to rest upon. That gallant officer was killed two days 
after at Chantilly while leading a charge upon the enemy. Battery E 
was attached to General Kearny's division at Chantilly. On the even- 
ing of Sept. 1, 1S62, the division was in position on the left flank of the 
main army. The battle was fought amid a terrific thunder storm. Gen- 
eral Kearny alone and mounted upon his favorite white horse came 
riding up to Battery E and inquired its name. On being informed that 
it was Randolph's battery he exclaimed: "Good!" and disappeared in 
the darkness. The men of that battery never saw him alive again. He 
rode through a gap between his division and General Stevens's, and fell 
pierced with rebel bullets. It is related that when the rebel general 
" Stonewall " Jackson came to the spot and viewed the body he said to 
those standing near : " My God, boys, do you know whom you have 
killed? You have shot the most gallant officer in the United States 
Army. This is Phil Kearny, who lost his arm in the Mexican War." He 
then involuntarily lifted his hat, every officer in the group following his 
example, and for a moment a reverential silence was observed by all. 
Subsequently the body of tire dead soldier was placed upon two boards, 
and, being removd to headquarters, was followed by General Jackson and 
other officers, while a regimental band preceded it, playing a dead march. 
Gen. A. P. Hill said when he saw Kearny dead : " Poor Kearny! He de- 
served a better fate than this!" It is said that his impetuous bravery 
and skill would, had he lived, undoubtedly placed him among the fore- 
most leaders of our armies. 

Lieutenant Hill was selected from among the many competent men in 
his battery to the position of corporal Aug. 5, 1862. Soon after he 
became gunner on the fifth piece, and as such he served in all the battles 
in which his battery was engaged previous to his departure for another 
field of duty. 

In December, 1S63, he received permission to appear before the Board 
of Examiners at Washington, D. C, and passed a satisfactory examina- 
tion as second lieutenant in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, 
and was assigned to Company F. He was mustered in Dec. 30, 1863. 
He served with his regiment in the Department of the Gulf, being sta- 
tioned at various places on the Mississippi River. Being familiar with 
the light artillery service he was often selected to drill detachments of his 



HEAVY ARTILL1 I i>). 

bal ilion (the Second) in that arm. He « 
ment Oct. 2, 1865. 

At the close of the war Lieutenant Hill , hool 

while preparing tor his medical course. With 
ment that he evinced during his careei 

to achieve a name for himself in his chosen profession. He pur*u 
medical studies partly in the University of Vermont at B 
graduated from the University in Neu 
of M. D., in March, 1S72. He immediate In the citj 

dence, where he has since been engaged in his profession, and has 
acquired a successful and extensive practice. 

Dr. Hill is well known in society circle-, and is connected with many 
organizations. Among them may be mentioned 
Masons, and the Grand Chapter. He has been G 
dependent Order of Odd Fellows of Rhode Island, and occupied the 
tion of Grand Representative to the Sovere 

years. He has been Grand Patriarch of the Grand Encampment of Rhode 
Island. He is also a member of the Knights of Honoi 
Medical Examiner for nine consecutive years. He is Medical Examiner 
of Providence Lodge, Ancient Order of United Workmen. In 187a and 
1S7:; he represented his native town in the Genera! Assembly of Rhode 
Island. He has been for many years a mem': .hool committee 

of the city of Providence. He is also connected with the Rhode Island 
Medical Association. He is now and has been for seven. lirecfor 

in two of the Providence bank-. 

Dr. Hill joined Prescott Post, No. 1. lent of Rhode Island 

Grand Army of the Republic, in 107:. li _ 'on In 

1S7:;, and held that office for four years in succession. He was elected 
medical director of the department in 1S76, and occupied that position for 
three vears. In iSSij he was elected president of the First Rhode Island 
Li^ht Artillery Veteran Association. He joined the Massachusetts Cora- 
mandery of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United 
in 1S94. He was appointed Assistant Surgeon General in the Rhode 
Island Militia May 30, 1S94. and has held that office to the present time 
(iSyS). He is a member of the Rhode Island Medical Society, and of the 
Society of the Sons of the American Revolution: also Gra: 
Masons, and Grand Chapter of Masons of Rhode Island. 

At the commencement of the war with Spain he pat: 
hi- -ervices to the government, and was commissio 1 ith the 

rank of major in the First Regiment Rhode Islai I Volui i was 

mustered into service May 3, 1S9S, (and not M 

fcer), being the first person to be mustered into the regiment. On t!i 
of September. 1S98, he was appointed acting brigade surgeon third brig- 
ade, -econd division, second army corps. 



|26 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 



JOHN A. REYNOLDS. 

Second Lieutenant John A. Reynolds, son of Luther and Mahala 
(Arnold) Reynolds, was born in Newburyport, Mass., July 12, 1839. His 
ancestors are of Rhode Island stock, and in the early settlement of this 
country resided in West Greenwich, R. I. On the maternal side his 
grandfather, William Arnold, served as a soldier in the War of 1812. 
His father with his family removed from West Greenwich, R. L, to Prov- 
idence about the year 1838. He afterwards lived in Newburyport and 
Salem, Mass., Killingly, Conn., North Providence, and Foster, R. I. 

John, the subject of our sketch, attended the public schools in early 
youth. He came to Providence in 1S5S, and worked for awhile at the lapi- 
dary business. He subsequently attended the High School of that city, 
and was pursuing his studies therein when he became imbued with a 
patriotic desire to serve his country, and enlisted as a private in Com- 
pany B, Tenth Rhode Island Infantry. This company was of excellent 
material, being composed of students of Brown University and the Provi- 
dence High School, and was commanded by that sturdy ex-governor, 
Elisha Dyer, father of the present governor of Rhode Island. This com- 
pany was stationed in Fort Pennsylvania, in the Defences of Washing- 
ton. A brother of Lieutenant Reynolds, Horatio N., was a member of 
Company K, of this regiment, and is now a resident of the city of Provi- 
dence, R. I., and a clerk in the highway department of that city. Lieuten- 
ant Reynolds, after serving his term of enlistment with the Tenth, again 
entered the service as a corporal of Company I, Eleventh Rhode Island 
Infantry, one of the companies recruited under the auspices of the Young 
Men's Christian Association. He served with credit in this regiment 
during its term of service, and was mustered out July 13, j S63. 

Soon after his return home he entered Brown University in the class of 
1863, but upon receiving a commission as second lieutenant in the Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Dec. iS, 1S63, he again entered the 
service ; was mustered in Dec. 23, 1S63, and assigned to Company F. Lieu- 
tenant Reynolds evinced a marked taste for vocal music; being himself a 
good singer, he generally took the lead in musical entertainments, and 
many an otherwise tedious hour in camp was pleasantly spent in this de- 
lightful recreation. Of a genial disposition, and a warm, sympathetic 
nature, he naturally won many friends; and his comrades will always re- 
member him as ever ready to aid in every good word and work. He was 
mustered out with his regiment Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Soon after leaving the army he removed to the West, and was employed 
by a publishing house in canvassing for directories throughout the South. 
While residing in Lafayette, Indiana, he was attacked with typhoid fever, 
and, after several weeks of painful illness, died Oct. 26, 1866, lamented by 
a large circle of acquaintances. 



Hi W '■ ARTILLERY (COLORE' 

JAMES DOD] 

Second Lieutenant James Dodds, son of John and 
Dodds, was born in Thorny Bank, Scotland. April n, 1844. He came 
with his parents to this country in his youth, and attended the public 
schools in Carolina Mills, R. I., and was by occupation a clerk at the 
time of his enlistment as private in Company L. Third HI 
Heavy Artillery, Jan 11, 1862. He wu muttered in Feb. 1 (. [86a D ■ 
charged to accept commission as second lieutenant in the Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Dec. 15, 1S63; musterc: I 
assigned to Company G: detached by order ai acting aid-de-camp at 
Post Plaquemine, La., Nov. 29, 1864, and to borne until January, 
He returned with his regiment to Rhode Island in October. iV,;. His 
occupation since the war has been practically the same as when he en- 
tered the service, that of clerk. 



GEORGE L. GASKELL. 

Second Lieutenant George L. Gaskell was born in Tiverton, 
R. I., April 16, 1S40. He attended the public schools of that town in his 
youth. Previous to his entering the army he was employed by Greene & 
Arnold, Zanzibar, Africa. He enlisted as a private in Batterj (I. First 
Rhode Island Light Artillery, Dec. 3, 1S61, and was mustered in Dec. 21, 
1861. He participated with his battery in its campaigns and battles until 
discharged, Jan. 2, 1S64, to accept a commission as second lieutenant in 
the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. He was assigned to Com- 
pany G. His commission is dated Dec. 20, 1S63. He wai mustered in 
Jan. 3, 1864. He was borne on detached service as acting deputy provost 
marshal at Plaquemine, La., from May 24. 1S64, until September, 
on general court-martial May 25, 1S64; borne on special duty as enrolling 
officer from Nov. 7, 1S64, until Nov. 29, 1S64; ordered on detach' 
vice as officer of the provost guard at Plaquemine, La., Dec. 22, 1864; on 
detached service as acting provost marshal, parish of A>cension, from 
Sept. 3, 1S65, until muster out of service, Oct. 2, 1S65. 

On his retirement from the service he settled in Plaquemine, La., and 
engaged in the lumber business. Was selectman for several term'., and in 
1874 was mayor of Plaquemine. In 1S90 he removed to Cincinnati, Ohio, 
where he still resides. 



328 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

JAMES P. BROWN. 

Second Lieutenant James Peck Brown, son of Eleazar and 
Charlotte (Wright) (Peck) Brown, was born in Rehoboth, Mass., on 
the 4th day of November, 1S44. His ancestors were of sturdy New 
England stock. 

James, the subject of this sketch, at an early age manifested a strong 
desire for a liberal education. At the age of fifteen he commenced the 
study of Latin, which he continued, with some interruptions, until he 
arrived at the age of seventeen. He then attended the University Gram- 
mar School, at Providence, R. I., where he remained nearly two years. 

He was at this school when Fort Sumter fell. He manifested a strong 
desire to enlist, but his parents would not consent. In the spring of 
1S62 the consent of his parents was obtained and he enlisted for three 
months' service in Company K, Tenth Rhode Island Infantry. The reg- 
iment left Providence on the 26th of May, 1S62, and was mustered out 
Sept. 1, 1862. 

After his return from the service he continued his studies at the Uni- 
versity Grammar School. In September, 1S63, having completed his 
preparatory studies he entered Brown University in the class of 1867. 
His heart, however, was still with our armies in the field, and, having 
passed a satisfactory examination before the Examining Board at Wash- 
ington, D. C, he was commissioned second lieutenant in the Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Dec. 31, 1S63, and assigned to Company 
H. He was detached as officer of the provost guard at Plaquemine, La., 
March 27, 1864. On the 2Sth of December, 1S64, he was ordered to take 
command of a detachment of twenty-four from his battalion and proceed 
to the telegraph station directly opposite Plaquemine. Captain South- 
wick, acting assistant inspector-general, in a report to headquarters, 
says: "At the telegraph station, directly across the river, are twenty-four 
men of Company G, Third Rhode Island Cavalry, in charge of a second 
lieutenant of that company; also twenty-four men from the artillery com- 
panies. Lieut. James P. Brown, Company H, Eleventh United States 
Colored Artillery (Heavy), commands both the detachments. He is about 
twenty years of age, but evidently a very fair officer. His detachment 
was in very good shape." 

In June, 1865, his battalion was stationed at Donaldsonville, La. Here 
Lieutenant Brown died of congestive chills, Aug. 23, 1865. 

The letters written to his friends by the several officers of his battalion 
give the best account of his sickness and the estimation in which he was 
held by his comrades. We quote a few extracts. 

Lieutenant Gaskill, who was in temporary command of the company 
during the absence of Captain Addeman, says : " It is with feelings of 
sadness that I communicate to you,the death of your brother James. He 
died about four p. m., to-day, at the hospital, of congestive chills. He 




LIEUT. 1'AR1M)\ M.\^o\ 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED), 329 

had not been well during the past two m 

dangerously ill until a few hours previo.: . . . 

" It is useless for me to speak to you of his m.-rit-. I 
me to say that he was an excellent otVicer; for in such an o: 
bodied every quality pertaining to manhood. He •■ 
rian. He possessed that firmness and decision of purpos • 
ability to command, which few of his age are endowed w 
to excel, tf a person can ever be said to be genero 
think he could be said to be that pet 

Captain Addeman writes: "We have now for nearly two j 
associated with each other. I had learned to love him as a brother. 11 - 
high sense of honor, his conscientious attention to every duti 
him by his superiors, his temperate habit-, hi 
not only attached me to him as his captain, by the it 

awakened the deepest love and respect of all his brother officers. There 
are none who are free from the weaknesses of frail humanity, but I have 
often thought, and as often remarked to others, that Jan 
bly free from the common error- of youn* men. I! 
and irreproachable. His life was unblemished. 



" He possessed a high degree of physical and m In the 

moment of threatening danger hi I blanch, but it was from 

no source of fear. He fully appreciated the extreme peril of t li * ■ 
and he heroically nerved himself to meet it. I do not think ti. 
the stake or of the rack would have extorted from him a murmur. Hi- 
brave soul would have rendered him equal even to that erne; _ 
was often envied by his brother officers for the splendid ; sveiop- 

ment with which nature had endowed him." 

Captain Cragin .-ay-: •• 1 was struck from lh Ith the re- 

ble interest James manifested in military dutie omed to be pecu- 

liarly fitted for the profession of arms. His manly air and be 
figure, powerful muscular development, ability to endure protracted 
and fatigue, undoubtable courage, resolute spirit, ai 
for the service, seemed to furnish an unusual number of quali- 
the trying exigencies of military life. I need not say thai nt ex- 

perience proved that he possessed all these - qualities in a rare 

measure. He suffered very severely from the chills. He frequently 
went on duty when he was not able to do so, but was never known to 
utter a word of complaint. He was selected for the dai 
Plaquemine on account of hi.- habits of stricl discipline, and : 
cessful command over his men." 

The officers of his regiment during his sickne tor him « 

tenderness more than filial, and lie was accorded a - His 

remains now rest in his native 



330 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

SAMUEL WILDES COGGESHALL. 

Second Lieutenant Samuel Wildes Coggeshall, son of Rev. Dr. 
Samuel W. Coggeshall, was descended from Pilgrim stock, his great an- 
cestor John having come with his wife and three children to Boston, in 
the ship Lyon, Sept. 16, 1632, the same ship which had previously 
brought Roger Williams and others. John Coggeshall was descended 
from Sir Thomas de Coggeshall, who lived about the latter part of the 
reign of King Stephen, grandson of the Conqueror. He derived his 
patronymic from the town of Coggeshall, on the Black Water Country of 
Essex, built by King Stephen, in 1142, near which was Codham Hall. 
John Coggeshall was a member of the first church in Boston, under Cot- 
ton and Wilson, and was also associated in the government with Winthrop 
and others, till the famous General Court, of Nov. 7, 1637, after which, in 
pursuit of liberty and conscience, in carrying out religious convictions, he 
with Coddington and sixteen other prominent and influential men pur- 
chased Aquidneck (now Rhode Island) of the Narragansett Sachems, 
where they removed in March, 1638, and founded Newport, and, in con- 
nection with Roger Williams, who was in Providence two years before, 
established religious freedom on this continent. 

Lieut. Samuel Wildes Coggeshall, the subject of our sketch, was born 
in Woonsocket, R. I., Nov. 27, 1844. In his youth he attended the public 
schools, also a private school for boys. At the time of his enlistment in the 
Union Army he was a student at East Greenwich Academy, where he had 
entered on a course for a profession, but which the war effectually frus- 
trated. He first enlisted as a corporal in Company F, Ninth Rhode 
Island Infantry, May 26, 1862, and was stationed with his company in 
Fort Carroll, in the Defences of Washington, D. C. He was mustered 
out with his regiment, Sept. 2, 1S62. He again entered the service as a 
sergeant in the Twelfth Rhode Island Infantry, Oct. 7, 1862, and partici- 
pated with his regiment in the hard fought battle of Fredericksburg, and 
the campaign in the West. Upon the expiration of the term of service of 
the regiment, July 29, 1863, it returned to Rhode Island. 

Lieutenant Coggeshall had become so enthused with the patriotic 
spirit that he was unable to resume his studies, and proceeded to Wash- 
ington, D. C., where he passed a creditable examination before General 
Casey's Examining Board as second lieutenant in the Fourteenth Rhode 
Island Heavy Artillery. He was assigned to Company H, and served 
with credit in his regiment. 

On the 5U1 of December, 1S64, he was appointed acting aid-de-camp on 
the staff of Gen. Thomas W. Sherman, in the Defences of New Orleans, 
and served in that capacity until April 1, 1865. He was mustered out 
with his regiment Oct. 2, 1S65. 

After his discharge from the army he took a course of instruction in 
book-keeping, and went to New Orleans, where for several years he was 
clerk and cashier for a lumber firm. He died of yellow fever in that city, 
Aug. 25, 1878. 



HEAVY AR1 !!.! | 

PRANK FROST. 

Second Lieutenant Frank Frost, son of Samuel ami . 
(Fall) Frost, was born in Southbridge, Mass.. J u lv 31, 1 
with his family afterwards removed to Klnderhook, \. \ 

attended the public schools. The family afterwards can. 
R. I., where he attended the Bridgham Grammar School. Hew 
in the Providence High School when he enlisted as privat* 
months' service in Company B, Tenth Rhode Island Infant! 
1862. He was mustered out with his regiment Sept. 1, 186a. He 
wards enlisted as private in Com, d In- 

fantry, Sept. 10, 1862, and served with his regiment in Virginia, until 
mustered out, July 13,. 1863. He appeared bet.., «rd In 

Washington, D. C., and received a commission as second lieutenant in 
the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Jan. :o. 1864, and 1 
mustered to date from Dec. 24, 1863. He was assigned I 
He was detailed for service in the Chicago Mercantile Battery from June 
25, 1864, until July 5, 1S64. He was on duty as officer in charge of the 
guards at the United States General Hospital, Greenville, I.. 
1865. He resigned on account of ill health June 14, 1865. 

After his return from the army he was a conductor for the Union Rail- 
road Company for several years, and afterwards entered the employ of 
the Nicholson File Company, but was soon after compelled to give up 
his occupation there in consequence of impaired health. He died I 
1885. 



MARTIN S SMITH. 



Second Lieutenant Martin S. Smith was born in Seituate, R. I.. 
Dec. 21, 1S44. He is the son of Martin, grandson of Israel, an 
grandson of Jeremiah Smith, who was a resident of Smithfield for many 
years, and settled in Seituate in 17SS. His mother, Mary K. Smith, was 
a daughter of Ziba, and granddaughter of Simon Smith. ofGlocester. 

Lieutenant Smith was prepared for college at Smithville Seminary in 
Seituate, East Greenwich Academy, and the University Grammar S 
of Providence, and entered Brown University in [86l, when ■ 
years of age. Joining the "College Cadets" he acquired a rudiment- 
ary knowledge of military tactics as a non-commissioned officer from 
1861, to 1S63. In June, 1S63, he went with a section of the Marine Artil- 
lery, under Colonel Gallup, to Bonnet Point, where the batt< 
and drilled about six weeks. Jan. S, 1SG4, he went before Gen. Ca 
board for examination, and, upon receiving his commission in the Four- 
teenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, reported for duty, and was mus- 
tered in and assigned to iCompany K. Jan. 23. 1S64. Capt. A Rich- 
mond Rawson being absent sick, Lieutenant Smith comn npany 



332 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

K until the arrival of the Third Battalion in New Orleans, about the 
middle of April, 1864. In July, 1865,* Lieutenant Smith was appointed 
battalion quartermaster of the Third Battalion, and Sept. 18, 1865, acting 
regimental quartermaster, serving in that capacity until the disbanding 
of the regiment, about the last of October, 1865. In November, 1865, 
Lieutenant Smith received a new commission in the Sixty-fifth United 
States Infantry (Colored), which he did not accept, and upon which he 
was not mustered. Returning to Brown University in November, 1865, 
he graduated with the class of 1S67. After graduation in 1867 Mr. Smith 
went to Blackfoot City, Montana, where he taught awhile in the public 
schools, and devoted a short time to gold mining, but was occupied the 
greater portion of three years in mercantile pursuits. 

Returning to Rhode Island in 1870 he was a coal merchant in Provi- 
dence until 1S76. During the next two years he was engaged in selling 
the "Tinglev Heat Governor" in New York City and Brooklyn. Retir- 
ing to the old homestead in Scituate in 1S7S, he has since given his atten- 
tion chiefly to fruit raising. He has held many public offices in his 
native town, having been moderator and a member of the town council, 
school committee, superintendent of schools, trial justice, and in other 
positions of honor and trust. He has been a member of the legislature 
of Rhode Island nine years, seven in the lower house and two in the 
senate. Mr. Smith was married in 1SS1 to Marcelia, daughter of Joseph 
and Elizabeth Dexter, and has two sons, Howard D. and Benjamin H. 
Smith, and three daughters, Mary E., Lvdia W., and Helen M. Smith. 

He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. He joined Pres- 
cott Post in May, 1867, and was afterwards transferred to Rodman Post, 
No. 12, of Providence. Mr. Smith united with the First Baptist Church 
of Providence in May, 1S66, and has always been interested in church 
and Sunday-school work, having served as superintendent of mission and 
Sunday-schools twenty years. 



BENJAMIN DUNN JONES. 

Second Lieutenant Benjamin Dunn Jones was born in Providence, 
R. I., May 31, 1840. After a preliminary training in the public schools, 
he entered Kenyon College, at Gambier, Ohio, with a view to fitting him- 
self eventually for the ministry of the Protestant Episcopal Church. He 
subsequently entered Brown University, expecting to graduate with the 
class of 1864, and was here pursuing his studies when the War of the Re- 
bellion broke out. He promptly enlisted as a private in Company A, 
Fourth Rhode Island Volunteers, subsequently being promoted to corpo- 
ral and sergeant, serving out his original term of enlistment and re- 
enlisting in January, 1S64, for a further term. In all the battles in which 
his regiment bore so gallant and conspicuous a part, he was present, but 



HEAVY ART] 

escaped casualty exec when he wi 

wounded. He was commiai utenant in 

Rhode Island Heavy A to Company I, and - 

with that command from Janua intil mustered out, Oct. J 

He was frequently assigned on special duty, to whi< 
by his education and military experience. 

On returning to Providence at the close of the war, he felt that the 
long interruptions of his Si i,n for their further 

cution, and he removed to Omaha, Nebraska, to enter busim 
Mere he remained until his 
known and respected for his g worth, 1 . 

■ it., and his untimely death was universally regretted. Tl M 
Lodge of which he was a member participated in his June:. 
His remains were taken to Providence. R. I., and int< ! i 

Cemetery in that city. 



IRDON MASON. 

Second Lieutenant Pardon M ■ and Mel 

T. Mason, was born in Pawtucket, R. I., March : 

cated in the public schools of that place. He was a s>h and blind 

by trade, and was engaged in that occupation in Providence at the b 

ing out of the war. He was among the first to volunteer, enlistil 

private in Company E, First \'. . \ 

1861, and mustered May 2, 1861 ; promoted curporal Jun 

tered out Aug. 2, 1S61. On his return he organized a company i;: 

tucket, and was commissioned a captain in the Third R: 

Heavy Artillery, Aug. 27, 1861, ami assigned to Company F; rnui 

in Sept. 7. [861. He was ordered to Kurt Seward Jan. 4, 1862; < T>.i • 

Tybee Island May, 1862; ordered on special d 

April 29, 1863. On the 4th of February, 1S04, hi 

second lieutenant in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Ar tiller; 

assigned to Company K; mustered I 1S64; borne as acting 

mental adjutant from April 23, 1864, until May, 18^4: borne as absent Kick 

from May 22, 1S64, until June, 1864; ordered on duty as actii - 

quartermaster July 22, 1864; relieved from duty by on. 

again ordered on special duty as acting battalion quartermaster, V 

1864; and so borne until January, 1865; honorabi ) 

1865. 

On his return from the army he wa 
gale, at their works in Providence. He was instantly killed while in 
their employ, Aug. 15. 1865, by being thrown fr< 
breaking of some portion of the machine 



334 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 

HERBERT F. BENNETT. 

Second Lieutenant Herbert F. Bennett, son of Bela W. P. and 
Clarissa G. (Brown) Bennett, was born in Hopkinton, R. I., March 18, 
1S44. His great grandfather served in the Revolutionary War. When 
about six years of age Lieutenant Bennett's parents moved to Providence, 
R. I., where he attended the public schools, and subsequently in Foxboro, 
Mass. He enlisted in Battery E, First Rhode Island Light Artillery, 
Sept. 30, 1861, and was mustered into service on the same date. He par- 
ticipated in all the battles in which his battery was engaged previous to 
his promotion, with the exception of the battle of Gettysburg, when he 
was absent on sick furlough. He re-enlisted Dec. 23, 1S63, and was 
sworn into service on the 24th. He passed a successful examination 
before the P^xamining Board in Washington, and was commissioned a 
second lieutenant in the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. He 
was assigned to Company L, and was stationed for the greater portion of 
his term of service in Fort Banks, La. He was mustered out with his 
regiment Oct. 2, 1865. 

Soon after the war he removed to Bristol, R. I., and was employed as 
conductor on the Providence, Warren, and Bristol Railroad, which posi- 
tion he held until 1882, when he was elected town clerk of Bristol, which 
office he has held continuously ever since. He was a member of the gen- 
eral assembly of the town in 1S81-2. 

He joined Babbitt Post, of Bristol, in 1867, and continued with it until 
the post was disbanded, in 1871. Upon its reorganization, in 1885, he 
again became identified with it, and has filled various offices in the post, 
including that of adjutant and commander. He was an aid-de-camp on 
the staff of the commander-in-chief in 1890, and has also served as a 
member of the council of administration; quartermaster-general of the 
the department, and as junior and senior vice 'department commander. 
He is also a member of Providence Royal Arch Chapter, St. Albans 
Lodge Free and Accepted Masons, Bristol and Mount Hope Council 
Royal Arcanum, Bristol, R. L, and the First Rhode Island Light Artil- 
lery Veteran Association. 



CHARLES M. SMITH. 

Second Lieutenant Charles M. Smith was born in Providence, 
R. I., March 27, 1845. He attended the public schools of his native city 
in his youth, and had just graduated from the Providence High School 
when he enlisted, May 26, 1862, as a private in Company D, Tenth 
Rhode Island Infantry. He served with his regiment in the Defences of 
Washington, D. C, and was mustered out Sept. 1, 1862. He again en- 
tered the service as sergeant in Company I, Eleventh Rhode Island 
Infantry, Sept. 15, 1862; and was mustered in Oct. i, 1862; mustered out 




LIEUT. HERBERT 1 . Bl Nl 
I ent picture 



HEAVY ARM 1.1 335 

July 13, 1S63. He was commissioned second lieutenant in the Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Jan. :. . 

detached for duty in Company K by order d 
adjutant Third Battalion fiom M 
mustered out with his regiment Oct. 2, ; 

On his return to Providence he put 
He was superintendent of ,ce from • I 

1867, to April 14, 1879. The term ot oti 
mainly by the introduction of the methi 
and those who were acquainted with him will 
direction as one of his prominent charai 
up of this study which brought him into 
and marked the latter ye; life, 

When the electric lighting 
were on the second floor of the old railroad station, and when t! 
City Hall was being built Mr. Smith pro-, 
is now the battery room of the tire alarm telegraph. 

The system had but fairly been put into practical op 
parts of the city when Mr. Siniiii gave up his position and be< 
ested in the invention of steel. non*wi 

introduced by Massachusetts parties, and he rem ice lo 

Boston. 

This latter scheme did not meet with thi 
moters, and Mr. Smith finally relinquished hit 
trical work again as an expert and engineer. 

He died in Boston, Aug. 4, 1S96. 



ALBERT W. DELANAH 

Second Lieutenant Albert V mi, sou ot v. 

Abigail (Brown) Delanah, was born in Pawiucket, R. I., in [834. He 
has resided the most of his life in Providence. R. I.. ed the 

trade of jeweler. For five years prior to the war he wai in the 

manufacture of jewelry. 

He was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Twelfth R 
Infantry Oct 10, 1S62, was assigned t«< Company B, and . 1 with 

his regiment in the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., 1» nd the 

subsequent campaign in Kentucky, under Burnside. I: 
to first lieutenant March 31, 1863, and was mustered out Ju 
He again entered the service Feb. : ml in the 

Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, and w 
pany M. The Third Battalion of his regimenl wai 

Parapet, La., where it performed garrison duty duril re period of 

service. He was mustered out with his regiment Ocl 



336 FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 



WILLIAM S. DYER.i 

First Lieutenant William S. Dyer was born in Fredericksburgh, 
Va., Oct. 28, 1837. He is the son of William H. and Mary Gorton (Tan- 
ner) Dyer. He is a descendant on both the paternal and maternal sides 
from Roger Williams. His mother was born in the house built for 
Joseph, son of Roger Williams. This house remained in the possession 
of the family until within a few years. 

William H. Dyer, the father of the subject of our sketch, removed to 
Virginia in 1836, to engage in silk culture, and returned to Rhode Island 
when his son William was two 3 - ears of age. William received his edu- 
cation in the public schools of Cranston. He also attended the Smithfield 
Seminar^', and later Jencks Mowry's Academy at Mount Pleabant, North 
Providence, R. I. 

On the breaking out of the Rebellion he was among the first to enlist in 
the First Light Battery Rhode Island Volunteers, April 17, 1S61, and was 
mustered out Aug. 6, 1S61. He was afterwards enrolled as quartermaster 
sergeant in Battery B, First Rhode Island Light Artillery, Aug. 13, 1861, 
and was mustered in same date. He was discharged for disability Dec. 1, 
1862. On his return to Rhode Island he joined the Marine Artillery, and 
during the draft riots was stationed with his battery at Bonnet Point, 
and at the armory on Benefit Street in Providence. 

On the 14th of September, 1863, he was appointed second lieutenant in 
the Fourteenth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. He subsequently appeared 
before the Examining Board at Washington, D. C, and was commis- 
sioned first lieutenant in the same regiment Dec. 2, 1S63. He was 
appointed ordnance officer at Plaquemine, La., March 27, 1864. By order 
of Maj.-Gen. N. P. Banks, Sept. 12, 1864, to date back to April 1, 1S64, 
he was assigned to duty in the office of the chief engineer of the Depart- 
ment of the Gulf. He built the earthwork, a ten-gun fort, at Plaque- 
mine, La. When the Second Battalion removed to Donaldsonville, in 
June, 1865, he was ordered to dismantle this fort and rejoined his bat- 
talion at Donaldsonville, where he held the position of post ordnance 
officer until the battalion was ordered to Camp Parapet, La., in Septem- 
ber, 1S65. He was mustered out Oct. 2, 1S65. 

Since the war he has been engaged in various pursuits. From Decem- 
ber, 18S0, till April, 1884, he was in the civil service of the United States, 
first as clerk at Brule Agency, Dakota, and then as clerk in charge of 
Crow Creek Agency, Dakota; and later Special United States Indian 
Agent with Cheyenne Indians of Montana, and stationed at Miles City. 
He is at present residing in Cranston, R. I. 



1 The sketches of Lieutenants Dyer and Wardlow were received too late to insert them 
in their proper order among the first lieutenants. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY 

JOHN K. WARDLOW. 

First Likitknam JoHW E. WARDLOW, ton <>t James and I 
(Cooke) Ward low, mi born In Pawtucket, ' rritory which i* now 

in Rhode Island), Oct. (6, 1840. lie attended the public school-, 
native place In his youth. At the breaking our -ellion he mani- 

fested a strong desire to serve his country In her hour of peril, enll 
as private in Battery B, First Rhode [aland Light Aitillei . 
That he was an excellent soldier is shown by the fact that be 
cessively promoted to corporal, sergeanti and first sergeant in hit battery, 
and afterwards was detached as acting sergeant-majoi tillerj 

brigade of the Second Array Corps of the Army of thi ic. He sub- 

sequently received a commission as second lieutenant In the Fourteenth 
Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. Oct. in, [863, and afterwards on appearing 
before the Examining Board at Washington, D. Cm received a COron 
as first lieutenant in the same regiment Dec. 3, 1863, and ned to 

Company E. He was acting battalion quartermaster <>t his battalion from 
Jan. 21, 1S64, until March, [864. He was also borne on detached service 
as post quartermaster and commissary from March -7, (864, until N 
1S64. Also served as post commissary at Donaldsonville, l.a., from June 
25, 1865, to Aug. 29, 1865. He was discharged from the service In conse- 
quence of impaired health Aug. 29, 1865. After returning to the 
he went to an infirmary in New York for his health) but not receiving 
any lasting benefit returned to Providence, R. 1. Soon afterwards, while 
visiting his relatives in New York City, he was taken suddenly ill of heart 
disease, and died there March 10, 1S67. 



Errata 



On page 63, in last line, " Wietzel " should read " Weitzel." 

On page 124, "Governor Morris's plantation," should read " Governor 
Moore's plantation." 

On page 151 it is stated that Capt Charles R. Brayton appeared before 
the Examining Hoard at Washington. He did not appear before the 
Board, but he did receive an appointment as lieutenant-colonel, which he 
declined. 

On page 172, the name of Charles H. Stafford should appear among the 
corporals. 

On page 175, the name of John H. Monroe should appear among the 
sergeants. 

On page 1S3, " Lemli Agency " should read " Lumli Agency," and the 
date " 1S76," instead of " 1S7S." 

On page 183 Lieut. Edward Aborn was mustered "May 30, 1861," not 
" May 2, 1S61." 

On page 220 it is stated that Lieut. James P. Brown died "Aug. 13, 
1S65." It should read "Aug. 23, 1865." 

On page 287 it is stated that the First Battalion garrisoned Forts Jack- 
son and St. Philip. It was Fort Jackson only that the battalion garri- 
soned. 



INDEX 



A Companv, 7, 10, 11, 
66, 67, S 9 ; 128, 135, 136, 13S. 140, 

J 55- l6 4- 
Aborn, Edward, Lieut., 183, 322. 
Addeman, Jo&luia M.. Capt., .;. 

3°- 3*1 33-34- 5'- > ( >' 58. foi 61, 

72, 8l, 8:, 110, [13, 114, 133, 143, 

219, 293. 
Aldrich, Charles H., First Lieut.. 

61, 134. 135, 210, 306. 

Allen, George W. II., Lieut., 97, 
99, 107, lao, 247. 313. 

Allen, Henry \V. (Confederate Gov- 
ernor of Louisiana), 78, So. 

Anthony, Henry 1! , Hon., 14. 

Anthony, Robert C, Maj., ta6< 

Arnold, Fred A., 117. 

Arnold, Richard, Brig.-Gen., 5S. 

Arnold, Samuel G., Gov., 2. 

Atwood, Alexander, Seru't.. [34. 

Augur, Christopher C, Mai. -Gen., 
87. 

B Company, S, 10, 12, 16, 2^, 26, 

12S, 164-173. 
Bailey, Joseph, Cob.^S. 
Banks, Nathaniel P., Maj-Gen., 27, 

29. SO, 33, 34, 37, 43, 52. 57, 

69, 86, 87, 88, S9, 90. 
Barker, Alfred H., Jr., Lieut., 173, 

3°5- 
Barney, C Henry, Lieut., 61, 201, 

3°7- 
Bartram, N. B., Col., 44, 45, 67. 
Battery E, First Rhode Island Light 

Artillery, 112. 
Belcher, Jonathan S., Lieut., 229. 
Bennett, Herbert P., Lieut., 247, 

334- 
Benton, W. P., Brig.-Gen., $l, 61, 

62, 69. 
Bienville, 31. 

Bishop. Phanuel E., Capt., 21, 12, 

24. 26. 143, 164, 165, 301. 
Black, George H., Sergt., 10, 156. 



Timet II.. Maj. 
Bollig, !■ 
Bonnp 

ton, Charles !: 151, 

338- 

Breckinridge, John C. "■ 

Briggs, Thoroaa 1:.. L 

Brooks, Charles S., Liei. 

3»»« 

Brown, James I\, Liem., 127, 134, 

Brown, Zephaniah, Lieu- 

306. 
Buchanan, Thomas McKean, ». 

136. 
Bucklln, George, Capt., 10,24, 143, 

173. 

Bullen, Joseph D., Maj., 131. 
Burbank, Nathaniel, Lieut., 

I45. 
Burt, Ldmund C , * .112. 

Butler, Benjamin P., Maj. -de:. 
85, 86, 91, 95, 127. 

C Companv. 12, It, [6, -' 

Caldwell, Samuel, Actii 

ant Adjutaot-General, 2;. 
Cameron, Alien P., Lieut., 141, 

22S. 
Cameron, Robert a . Brig.-Gen., 

69, 1 10, 13c, 1 v s . 1 19- 
Campbell. 
Canby, Edward R S., Mr. -Gen., 

79, "So. 90. 07, no. 143. 145. 
Carpenter, Benoni, Surgeon, 39. 

40, 106, 153, 279. 
Case/, Silas, Maf.-Gen., 17. 
Chace, Charles 11 , Lk 

135, 136, if- «SSi 
Chastellux. Marquia .. 
Chenery, William H., Lieut., 60, 

113, 201, 309. 



340 



FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 



Chicago Mercantile Battery, 95. 

Cisco, Charles, 67, 159. 

Clark, Thomas M., Rt. Rev., 15. 

Cobb, J. C, Col., 25. 

Coggeshall, S. Wildes, Lieut., 220, 

33°- 

Cole, George W., Capt., 60, 143, 
192, 291. 

Collins, William R., Lieut. (Con- 
federate), 137, 138. 

Comstock, Joseph J., Maj., 13, 19, 
20, 24, 25, 26, 44, 47, 48, 67, 116, 
142, 152, 273. 

Cooke, George Lewis, Gen., 39. 

Cragin, Charles C, Capt., 113, 
114, 143, 201, 294. 

Craigue, Major, 62. 

Crandall, Henrie, Gen., 148. 

Currie, William H., Lieut., 193. 

Custer, George, Maj.-Gen., 130. 

D Company, 12, 20, 128, 182-192. 

Dana, N. ji T., Maj.-Gen., 22, 23, 
24, 25, 30, 89. 

Davis, George R., Maj., 97, 124, 
125. 

Davis, Jefferson, 4, 93. 

Day, George T., Rev., 20. 

Delanah, Albert W., 256, 335. 

Devlin, Major (Confederate), 13S. 

Devolve, Warren N., Lieut., 193. 

Dodds, James, Lieut., 211, 327. 

Downing, George, 38. 

Doyle, Thomas A., 39. 

Drake, George B., Maj., 78. 

Draper, Joseph R., Assistant Sur- 
geon, 153, 280. 

Dreux, Charles, Col. (Confeder- 
ate), 135. 

Dufour, Joseph, 81. 

Duncan, J. K., Brig.-Gen. (Confed- 
erate), 63. 

Durgin, George W., Jr., Capt., 55. 

Dyer, William S., Lieut., 135, 192, 
33 6 - 

E Company, 129, 134, 135, 192-200. 
Eleventh Louisiana Infantry (Con- 
federate), 135. 
Emory, William H., Maj.-Gen., 87. 

F Company, 81, 129, 201-210. 
Farnum, Samuel, Capt., 44, 46, 47, 

98, 102, 103, 143, 147, 228,295. 
Farragut, David G., Admiral, 31, 

46, 63, S6, 99, 132. 



Field and Staff, 151-154. 

First Battalion, 9, 10, 12, 19-26, 47- 
48, 63-67, 94, 116, 122, 125, 126, 
128, 135-139, 145. 

First Regiment Louisiana Cavalry, 
123, 124. 

First Regiment Louisiana Infantry, 
132. 

First Regiment Ohio Light Artil- 
lery, 77. 

Fisher, Lewis, 20, 177. 

Fiske, W. O., Col., 60, 62, 123. 

Fitzwater, Andrew J., Maj., 102, 
107, 116, 139, 153. 

Forty-second Ohio Infantry, 34, 51. 

Fourteenth Regiment New Hamp- 
shire Infantry, 44. 

Fourth Army Corps, 130. 

Fourth Regiment Louisiana Cav- 
alry (Confederate), 56. 

Fourth Regiment Rhode Island Mi- 
litia, 38, 39. 

Fourth Wisconsin Mounted Infan- 
try, 62. 

Freeman, Charles, 10, 160. 

Freeman, Peter, 10, 160. 

Fremont, John C., Maj.-Gen., 8. 

Frost, Frank, Lieut., 256, 331. 

Fry, Thomas W., Capt., 6, 10, 26, 
66, 95, 136, 137, 138, 143, 155, 
284. 

G Company, 61, 79, 129, 134, 210- 
219. 

Gardner, Frank, Gen. (Confeder- 
ate), 88. 

Garfield, James A., Maj.-Gen., 34. 

Gaskell, George L., Lieut., 60, 211, 

327- 
Gaskill, Robert S., Lieut., 219, 311. 
Gay, Charles P., Lieut., 24, 156, 

3*9- 

Gilmore, P. S., 33. 

Goffe, Sigourney B., Lieut., 36, 
113, 210. 

Grames, Frederick C, 13, 178. 

Granger, Gordon, Maj.-Gen., 116. 

Grant, Ulysses S., Gen., 58, 88, 89, 
99, 117, 130. 

Green, Thomas, Brig.-Gen. (Con- 
federate), 125, 131, 132, 136. 

Greene, Charles D., Lieut., 136, 
156. 

Greene, Christopher, Col., 1, 2, 15. 

Greene, Nathanael, Maj.-Gen., 1, 2. 

Grover, Cuvier, Brig.-Gen., 87. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COLORED). 



34« 



II Company, 139, no- 
Hack, Lieutenant (Confedc: 

55* 
I lahn, Governor, 32. 
Hall, Edward B., Rev. Dr., 16. 
Halleck, II. W., Maj.-Gen., to. 
1 [aroblin, George W., <^ M & 

. to6, [54. 
Hamilton, Alexander, 2. 
Harrison, William, Lieut., 17). 
Hartwell. Charli 
Hazard, Rowland R., Lieut., 155. 

Helme, William II.. 7. 
Hepworth, George II.. 64. 
Herron, Francis J., Maj.-Gen., 130. 

Hill, Lester S., Lieut., 60, 8a, iu, 

• 3 3 3- 
Hoffman, Wickham, Col., 143, 145, 
Holabird, Samuel 15., Col., 1 ;:;. 

Howland, Zebedee, Sergt.-Maj., 10, 

40. 154. 
Humbert, William L., Corp., 10, 

«57- 
1 lumphreys, L. II.. [48. 
Hunt. E. B., Maj., n. 

Hunter, David, Maj.-Gen., \. 

I Company, 47, 96, 9S, 102, 103, 

100, i z\, i (j. aao-a \~. 
Irwin, R, 1'.., Lieut. -Col., 15, 76. 

Jackson, Andrew, Gen., 34, 84, 85. 

Jackson, Charles A., Sergt., 10. 167. 

Jefferson, Samuel O., 6l, 216. 

Jefferson, Thomas, President, 84. 

lenkins, John A., Sergt., 10, 20, 
156. 

Johnston, Joseph E., Gen. (Confed- 
erate), 13S. 

Jones, Benjamin I)., Lieut., 95, 10S, 
141, 150, aa8, 33a. 

Ji nes. Captain, 147. 

K Company. 43, 47, 96,97, 102, 103, 

106, 142. "237-246. 
Kenyon, Nelson, Capt., 27, 29, S2, 

143, 210, 290. 
K ing, Anthonv, 6l, 216. 

gjht, Jabez C Mayor, 20. 

L Company, 46, 47, 99, 102, 103, 

246-255. 
Leavitt, Herbert 1)., Lieut., 193, 

Lee, Robert E., Gen. (Com 
ate), 4, 117, 138. 



tin, Abraham, President, 117. 

Livingston, ( tocai R., CapL, 

'»v M7- »37- 
Longfellow, Henry W 

■ 

Major, James P -n. (Con- 

federate I, 131. 
Malonev. I' | , Lieut., 118. 
Mason, Pardon, Lieut., 17 
Mason, Samuel 

Mam an, Bdwai 
9, 20. 

McAnnelly, Capt. 

Mi Clernand, John A., W 

as, 26. 
McDonald, A. 1L, Capt., 1 h 
Mecorney, Ho 

. 1 53. 
Merritt, Wesley, ' 
Metcalf, J 

Mississippi R ; . ription ot, 

[ 09-1 1. 

Morton, Nelson A., Lieut.. 
Mouton, Alfred, Brig.-Gen. (Con- 
federate). 125, 
Mumford, Charles II., Lieut., 17;,. 
Munroe, Charles W., Lieu! . 

Nims'a Massai I 
Ninety-eighth United s- 

nred Infantry, 1 28. 

Noka. Jeremiah, to, 158. 

Non-Commissioned Statt. t;i-i;; 

Olney, Jeremiah, Lieut. -Col., 1. 
One Hundred and sixty-second 

New York Infantry, ',;. 

Hundred and Twentieth Ohio 
Infantry, 3 ). 

I I 

Iford, Seth, Lieut. -( ...v.. 
Paine, Colonel, B7. 
Parkhurst, Charles H., Lieut. -Col.. 

13, 71, 101. 122, 12;, 121 
Peirce, John B., Lieut., 154, 155, 

\.. Lieu* . 
Phelps. J. W.. B 

i\. Leonai 1 

Pierce. I v., Lieu!.. 



342 



FOURTEENTH RHODE ISLAND 



Pomroj, Edwin C., Lieut., 123. 
Poncharlrain, Louis Phelyppeaux, 

Count, 46. 
Porter,David D., Admiral, 57,58,90. 
Potter, Charles H., Lieut., 13, 165, 

184, 316. 
Powel, John Hare, Col., 147. 
Prime, Major, 13. 

Quinn, James, 67, 162. 
Quinn, Major, 31. 

Ralph, Warren, Lieut., 95, 107,256, 
315. 

Ransom, T. E. G., Brig.-Gen., 26. 

Ratcliffe, W. B., Capt. (Confeder- 
ate), 78, 79. 

Rawson, A. Richmond, Capt., 237, 
297. 

Reed, Captain (Confederate), 122. 

Reynolds, Albert, 20, 190. 

Reynolds, J. J., Maj.-Gen., 30. 

Reynolds, John A., Lieut., 202, 326. 

Rhode Island Relief Association, 39. 

Rice, L. Fred, Capt., 113. 

Roberts, B. S., Brig.-Gen., 44. 

Robbins, Charles T., Gen., 5, 20. 

Roe, F. H., Lieut.-Commander, 35. 

Sayles, Willard, Col., 97, 124. 

Sears, Barnas, Rev. Dr., 16. 

Second Battalion, 27-36, 5i-<62, 69- 
83, 94-95, 112-115, 120, 126, 128, 
129, 131-135, 145. 

Second Regiment of Engineers, 
Corps d'Afrique, 25. 

Second Regiment Louisiana Cav- 
alry (Confederate), 56. 

Second Regiment Massachusetts 
Cavalry, 35. 

Second Regiment Rhode Island 
Cavalry, 123, 124, 126. 

Second Regiment Rhode Island In- 
fantry, S. 

Seddon, James A. (Confederate 
Secretary of War), 79, 80. 

Seventh -New York Volunteers, 142. 

Share, Captain, 40. 

Shaw, Richard G., Mai., 27, 33, 55, 
56, 60, 62, 69, 70, 78, 79, 82, S3, 
129, 152, 275. 

Sheridan, Philip H.,Gen., 117, 130. 

Sherman, Thomas W., Maj.-Gen., 
44, 46, 61, 63, 69, 70, 71, 78, 87, 
116, 117, 118, 120, 122, 123, 134, 
142,144. 



Sherman, William T., Gen., 57, 
90, 99- 

Sibley, H. H., Brig.-Gen. (Confed- 
erate), 35. 

Silcocks, John E., Lieut., 156. 

Simon, Henry, Capt., 8, 10, 66, 67, 
164, 286. 

Sixteenth Army Corps, 116. 

Sixth Regiment Rhode Island Vol- 
unteers, 5. 

Smith, A. J., Maj.-Gen., 57, 90, 
116. 

Smith, Charles M., Lieut., 106, 

247> 334- 

Smith, E. Kirby, Maj.-Gen. (Con- 
federate), 78, 117, 130. 

Smith, James Y., Gov., 6, 11, 12, 
14, 19, 24, 124, 148. 

Smith, Joseph, Sergt., 132, 221. 

Smith, J. V. C, Ex-Mayor, 114. 

Smith, Martin S., Lieut., 43, 48, 
106, 23S, 331. 

Smith, Warren D., Lieut.-Col., 46, 
69. 

Southwick, Henry K., Capt., 37, 
43, 96, 102, 105, 126, 127, 12S, 
134, 139, 143, 150, 255, 298. 

Sparks, T. G., Lieut.-Col. (Confed- 
erate), 78. 

Spellman, James J., 38. 

Spink, George A., Capt., 46, 95, 
99, 102, 103, 122, 143, 246, 296. 

Sprague, William, Gov., 5. 

Stafford, Charles L., Lieut., 24, 
125, 165, 228, 318. 

Steele, Frederick, Maj.-Gen., 90, 
116, 130. 

Stein, George W., Capt., 81. 

Stickney, Albert, Lieut.-Col., 126. 

Stone, Charles P., Brig.-Gen., 30. 

Stowe, Harriet Beecher, 31. 

Strong, George C, Maj., 95. 

Swain, Leonard, Rev. Dr., 16. 

Sypher, J. Hale, Col., 77, 78, 79, 
81, 100, 102, 113, 127, 129, 131, 
i34> 147. i5*> 267. 

Tansey, William F., Lieut., 147, 
238. 

Taylor, Alfred M., 228. 

Taylor, Richard, Maj.-Gen. (Con- 
federate), 57, 125. 

Taylor, Zachary, Gen., 22. 

Tenth Illinois Cavalry, 122. 

Third Battalion, 37-50, 67-68, 94- 
108, 116, 118, 120, 140-142. 



HEAVY ARTILLERY (COI.Oi 



3-13 



Third Regiment Rhode Island Cav- 

»l«7i «3i -9. 5 S < 7*i 97i ">»• «»i 
iaa, iM, iaa, 129. 

Third Regiment Rhode Island 
Heavy Artillery 1 6133, 143. 

Tliirteenth Armv Corps, 2^, 116, 

, 130. 
Thirteenth Regiment Corps d'Af- 

rique, 25. 
Thirteenth Regiment Rhode Island 

Volunteers, 7, 8. 
Thirtv-tirst Massachusetts Mounted 

Infantry, 72, S3, 1 13. 
Thompson, Major, 26. 
Tilman, Charles, Corp., 12, 157. 
Townsend, E. 1)., Assistant Adju- 

tant-Generali to, 27, 37. 
Tucker, A. I)., I Ion.. 137. 
Twentieth United States Colored 

Infantry, 44. 
Twenty-eighth Maine Intantrv, 131. 
Twenty-fifth Army Corps, 130. 
Twenty-fifth New York Battery, 128. 
Twenty-first Indiana Intantrv, 47, 

75- 

•d recruits, 265-266. 
United Train of Artillery, 7. 

Valentine, William, 137, 163. 

Van Slvck, John, Script., 16, 23, 

166. 
Viall, Daniel J., Lieut., 3S, 40, 43, 
[65, 321. 



Viall, Nelson, Lirut.-Col . 
IO, 13, 14, 18, 37, 38 
44« 
7*i 

I06, 107. lOB 1(1,1;. 

in, Ballejf I 

Waul : , 2. 

Wsrdlow, Lieut., Jolin B», 13s. 19a, 

W allacc, George, 2 ), 

Washburn, Cadwal 
( ren 

Washington, < <■■■■■ n (Jen., 1. 1 
Watkins, Steph 

1 ■!, 1 lenry !'»., Lieat., 165, 
Waugh, John P., l,. 20. 
Webster, Thorns 
Wee .'■ W . Lieut., 140, 

1741 3*7- 
Weitzel, Godfrey, 

87, 136. 

Wheeler. Waller, [r., Lieut., 174. 

White, J. C 

Whiting, [oseph C, )r.. Lieat. ( 

Willett, Marinui 

Williams, Alanson A., Lieu*.., 171. 
Williams. : 
Wilson. R , Col., h- 
Wilts, Captain I 
Woolsey, M. B., Lieut. -Com 
er, 132. 



7-bCU ac • 



j«u . 4 190& 



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